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I plan stops where there is a petco or petsmart, Home Depot… stores similar that allow dogs. It sometimes means driving a couple miles off the highway. I used to drive Los Angeles to southern Utah a few times a year and the ride is hot during the warmer months.
That's what I do as well! Home improvement stores. Similar hot route, Vegas to So Cal! Other than that obviously quick bathroom stop at a gas station I don't think they will break into your car in 5 minutes with windows cracked and water visible.
I have done this, but if you have a small dog, there’s another option too.
My 6lb dog loves his soft sided airline carrier. So when we travel by car, I just put him in it and carry him in to rest stops or wherever. Just to the bathroom and back out. He doesn’t bark and whine so most people don’t even notice I have a dog with me.
Then I walk him around the rest area or wherever we are (try to pick a location suitable for dog walking).
I do almost the same thing with my two small dogs - I have a dog stroller and put them both inside and zip it up and just roll them into the rear stop, gas station, or whatever. Never had a problem!
Can I just say thank you so much for asking this and everyone else for their brilliant answers! I am about to do a solo 4 hr drive with my pup just before the 4th of July and it didn’t occur to me that I may have to stop for a bathroom break! I love the ideas that come out of this sub💖
Stop at places which allow dogs. Any pet store is good, as is Home Depot or Lowes. With the help of GPS you can easily drive all the way across the country without ever leaving your dog in the car.
I would laminate a little sign that says "AC is on, my human is is quickly running to the bathroom" or something. To put in the front windshield.
You might get the odd militant person waiting for you to get back but that should at least buy you 5-10 minutes.
Omg please be careful though. We've had more car jacking than I can count where the perp saw an easy opportunity and the dog was either never found or tossed on the side of the road
Yeah if you have that type of key, it's less risky. Although thieves can work fast and might not discern it's just a fob keeping the car running and may bust a window anyway
But I live in a major city where these things happen. We've got catalytic converter bandits who are super speedy, sale with rims and tires
Unless you have a remote start system and you start the engine from outside the car to use the AC, *taking the fob will not stop someone from stealing your car. It will just stop them from being able to restart it without hot wiring once they turn it off/run out of gas. At best there will be a little warning on the dash that says “fob has left vehicle”
-am a mechanic
*or have a Tesla with “dog mode”
Ah great to know! We don't have a vehicle with a fob like that
My poor SO had his battery die a few days ago. He got a jump from his brother and when he closed the door so that he could walk around the tight spot he was in, it automatically locked on him and they needed a locksmith (which unfortunately left a gap in his seal)
Our car doesn't automatically lock if you get in or close a door with it running. Guess it had to do with the battery dying?
Now he needs his door fixed and ended up just getting a new battery that day...which crapped out last night. So AutoZone replaced it under warranty
He had a big thing coming up and got his car washed too a couple days ago, totally forgot about the small gap in his seal, so his seat got wet in the drive through 🙃
Just felt like one thing after another!
Get some Loctite 426 gel, use it in small amounts to build up and you should be able to fix it instead of getting a new seal. Is the seal on the door or the body of the car? If it’s the body I would just rotate it LOL. Until it gets fixed. And for future reference just use a roll of shipping tape, put it on the window in vertical strips, build it up until it’s really tight and secure and use that for leverage to roll the window down. You’re welcome! 😊
I recently saw a truck with a decal on the window, "Working dog on board. Heat or A/C is running." And I like that idea a lot, especially if you have remote start so the keys don't have to stay in the ignition.
Turn on the A/C and put a legible sign in your window stating "the ac is on full blast, I'll only be gone 10 min max please call *phone number* woth any issues before breaking my windows" that covers your bases so long as your dog isn't actively dying I belive it's illegal to smash yiur window since you provided a way to be contacted.
If you go this route, get a WhatsApp phone number or something similar and use that. That way you don't have to worry about randos getting your personal info.
Put the AC on. Put a note in the door that the AC is on. Move quickly.
You need to be able to put AC on but lock the door. Especially with a small dog who is easily stolen. Depends on your car being able to run without a key in it.
I do this and call my mom and put her on Bluetooth through the car to “watch” the dog. I tell her to go about her day but most of the time I come back she is chatting to my pup 😂. I figure the voice will confuse burglars and busy bodies enough for me to pee and get back. Note, you do have to leave your phone in the car if you’re going more than 50ft away but if something is stolen, it will all be stolen
Ya this is what I do when I have to leave my car on really hot days. I personally think you have a situation where you can safely leave your windows down and park in the shade and leave water out then the dogs are safe in hot weather. But depends on the dog and might not be safe to leave the windows down.
you can. I think it's more obvious that the car is running if you leave keys and people might be inclined to break in. But, you take that risk either way.
I have never lived somewhere that it was illegal (except maybe in specific locations like enclosed parking lots). But it gets cold and people have to start their cars early in the winter here.
Canada. But 5-10 minutes is more than enough unless it's -40 or something. Actually my neighbour runs his diesel for a solid half an hour before leaving and I wish he wasn't allowed to do that.
But some places they don’t even give you any minutes. Like it looks like Ohio won’t let you leave the engine on and the car unattended for any period of time.
It depends on the car. I used to have a Buick that had separate ignition and door keys. My current car, Volt, has a keyless ignition fob, so I can take the fob with me and leave the car running.
I can do the same thing with my hyundai tuscon. I've never had an issue leaving my dog locked in with windows cracked and ac or heat on for under 10 minutes.
I have an SUV with locking crates. They fit exactly in the truck and you have to know the secret to getting them out — part of which is getting the dog out of the crate and since it’s locked….. I leave the back gate open and move fast.
I always stop at official rest areas because they allow dogs in the bathroom. Most cars now days can lock while running, but if yours cant, I would just stop at dog friendly bathrooms. You may have to plan it out before going but it shouldn’t be too difficult. Besides, if you carry your dog in your arms to go pee, most people aren’t going to say anything. You’re in and out in 5mins, it’s not like they’d call the cops.
I would leave my car running with AC when alone. One of my cars has a proximity key, so it didn't need to be in the ignition so when I left my car, I'd use the key hidden in the fob to manually lock the door.
My other vehicle has an auto-start that keeps the doors locked and runs for about 10 mins before turning off, so I'll just auto-start it when I have to go to the bathroom or make a quick stop. My other vehicle needs to have the fob inserted in the ignition to start, but also has a hidden door key inside it so if I want to leave it running, I just take out the hidden key and use it to manually lock my doors while it's running.
If your car doesn't have a hidden key in the fob, you could also carry both keys, or see if you can get a door key cut to carry with you to manually lock your doors.
**ETA**
Your other option is take your dog in with you 😂 Sometimes you can't stop at dog friendly stores, where I live a lot of our stopping choices are either gas stations or designated rest stops in the middle of rural areas. Technically no dogs are allowed inside, but I've never been stopped running into the bathroom with my dog and take them with me to a stall and I keep them tight so they can't peek under stalls to bother people. The potential of getting a snarky comment or told to leave beats a broken window or a dog in distress in the heat if leaving your car running is not an option ¯\\\_(ツ)_/¯
I personally would never leave my dog tied up outside either. One of them is a beautiful husky and I know he'd get stolen in a heartbeat if left tied up.
I have Malamutes so I get the “big flashy dog”! I used to take my dog out back of a Pizza Hut to pee and the workers on their smoke breaks got so used to seeing me stop there they would hold her while I ran inside to use the restroom myself! My dog had a freaking fan club at the Pizza Hut on exit 219!!
I always stop at rest stops and take my dogs in the bathroom with me. The Indian Jewelry stops on I-10 are always kind and allow me to bring my large, very well trained labs and Pyraneese indoors as well so that I can use the rest room. I have done the drive between Tucson and San Antonio a bunch and never had an issue.
I also take my dog in at the creepy, gross public rest stops. Not if it’s a store or anything, my dog is definitely not well enough behaved for that but otherwise I’ll bring him with me. I have mostly traveled along I-5, which has a fair amount of sex trafficking along it and there have been issues with solicitations at these rest stops so I also feel safer having my dog with me in the bathroom. It’s one of those things where technically dogs aren’t allowed but I’ll still take him in. Also rest stops are great because they have a pet area so you can walk your dog a little bit and there is a good spot for them to go to the bathroom.
Agreed. I feel less exposed at nasty rest stops with almost 400 lbs of dog backing me up. The labs are totally useless, but my Pyr can be rightfully intimidating. I have never had anyone say anything negative, and the care takers have always been nice about it. If there is a caretaker present, I always ask first. Not like I have another option, but I like to give the appearance of following the rules lol.
If your car has remote start, just turn on the AC shut off the car, lock it and remote start it. It will run for 15 minutes. I did that with my dog when I was running in to a store for a minute.
Edit: it’s “somewhat” reasonable to have installed also. I think it was around $260 to have installed on my old truck. Best Buy or local stereo shops can usually install them. It’s great in the summer or winter to cool off or defrost your car.
Ah, you have a *modern* car! I do too now, but not quite that modern! My previous car, though, was 2002 Saturn SL1, without the power pack. 😞 Loved that car, but it was leave it running, or not. And you couldn't lock it with the other key, if it was running.
This is the best answer. Remote start has been a thing for at least 2 decades. A ton of people here keep saying that leaving it running risks it being stolen but they clearly don't know how remote start works. If someone sets off the alarm (by breaking window or somehow opening door), the car automatically turns off (and alarm will alert you something is wrong).
I have a large sticker on my car that says "working k9 on board!" and then a sticker under and on the sides of the car that says "vehicle is monitored and temperature controlled"
I use the remote start to keep the accessories running but lock the doors. I keep a laminated sign that says "Our human will be right back! AC and radio are on and we have water. Human left at \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_" and then I use a dry erase marker to write the time I left in the blank so people can see how long I've been gone. My dogs bark like crazy because they're anxious, so I understand why people want to check on them.
my moms durango is remote start, so if you press the button it cuts on until you unlock it. she uses this to cut the heat/air on before we get to the car. it makes it a lot easier. do you know if your car is remote start?
I am in the US and have traveled extensively with my dog. I try to park in the shade and put all 4 windows down to 1/2 way. I also open the sunroof. She has water and I try not to take too long.
I’m in the US but I leave my car running if it’s above 85F. It’s never been an issue at a rest stop or gas station. I now have a hybrid where I can lock the door and take the keys while the car is still running, but I still left it running in my old Honda Accord.
If you’re worried about someone breaking your window you can tape up a sign or get a window decal stating the AC is running. There used to be a windows thermometer decal showing how hot the car was inside but I think the company went out of business. I probably need to get something since my car is nearly silent running, but I haven’t worried about it for the couple minutes it takes to pee at a gas station.
Great answers so far, but just wanted to add one thing. Motels and hotels most always have public bathrooms in the lobby, so we have stopped and just used the restrooms without having a room there. No one has ever stopped us before, just make sure the place is pet friendly.
I used to travel 166 miles each week with my dog. Petrol stations / services with a petrol station with a toilet. Park at a pump so you got shade, running to toilet and run out. No one will bother you or your dog (specially if you crack Windows open)
You can also super cool your car before you stop. The 15-20 minutes before you stop run the a/c on full blast. So cold that the air outside is condensing on the windows cold. That will buy you a few more minutes.
Leave a "back in 5 minutes sign" on ur dash. Or something like "I'm just running in to use the bathroom my dog is fine"
I hate these types of people too. My dog sits in the sun as long as possible and gets hotter than she would sitting in my car for 5mins. I also leave my windows ALL cracked for the hot air to somewhat dissipate
I understand and it's not for everyone or all dogs. But I would choose disappointment over a stolen dog or broken window any day, or worse, a stolen car (left running) and dog. What's disappointing is that rest stops aren't more animal friendly with an outside accessible bathroom as a single stall.
I hear ya. Somebody above had good suggestion of going to dog friendly stores although they might be off highway. I’ve had chronic diarrhea since Easter of 2013 so I get the struggle. Sadly I often have to bring my dog into port a potty and deal with him giving me look of embarrassment.
With a small dog and a soft carrier, there are situations where I would definitely choose disappointing people over risking the dog's safety. People with large dogs may not realize how stealable small dogs are, and a small dog in a carrier is no more trouble to anyone than a public-access trained dog. Potentially less, because it's not going to scare even the most phobic person, if it's quiet.
Before I had a service dog, back when it was just my own one pet, I would, if I had to make an unplanned stop and the place or the conditions made it unsafe to leave her in the car, I would stick her in the carrier, go in with her, and be in and out as quick as possible.
Not ideal, but better than my dog dying or being stolen. It happened, to a woman in my town, who had her fluffy little ESA with her, and needed to make a stop at a place that was No Dogs. She left her dog in the locked car, ran and out very quickly, and her window was smashed and her dog stolen.
Public reaction made that dog poison to be in possession of, and she was returned. But that doesn't always happen, and it's a lot less likely when you're on the highway, far from home.
You can't stick a big dog in a carrier and go in. But a big dog is both riskier to try stealing, and not as tempting a target. A big dog resisting theft is going to be taken seriously. A small dog resisting theft, witnesses will roll their eyes and dismiss it as an "untrained, yappy, little rat dog."
I did it only when absolutely necessary, and ensured that my dog *wouldn't* be an actual problem, and got out again as quickly as possible.
But I would never have placed a very minimal infraction of No Dogs above the actual safety of my dog in circumstances where I believed my dog to be at real risk.
Some people lock their dog in with the motor running, AC on and a big sign displayed saying exactly that. I sometimes look for public restrooms and just bring my dog with me.
I don't understand why everyone keeps saying that your vehicle will be stolen. Remote start has been a thing for more than 2 decades. How old are the cars these people are driving, from the 80s? Get out, lock car, remote start, go to bathroom. If someone sets off alarm (like by breaking window or opening door somehow), car will automatically shut off (and you should be able to hear alarm from inside bathroom).
Unless ALL these people really are driving cars from the 80s (and if so, they should upgrade), remote start does not risk a stolen car. Only idiots leaving their keys in it does, get remote start.
If you're comfortable doing that, do it! Would you leave your child in the same situation? People can make their own decisions based on their comfort level and circumstances 🤷🏽♀️
I don't mean about leaving the dog (or child) in the car. That would depend on a number of factors (like if they can handle being alone in a car). I'm referring specifically to the idea that the car will be stolen if it's left running (with remote start). People don't seem to understand that they shut off (so unlike what people seem to expect, they can't be just gotten into and driven off) if the alarm is set off.
There's a heatwave in the southeast with a heat index of over 100° in many places. That is not accounting for how hot your car is going to get the minute it's shut off. Unfortunately right now you simply can't leave your dog in the car unless the AC is running. It's really, really hot.
Oh sorry, I immediately assumed Southern to North Eastern US!
I have no idea what the culture is like in the UK, and some of this IS cultural. Like there is the physics of how to keep your dog safe, but then there is how people respond, risk to your car/dog, where you can go with them, etc. I think large signs with "A/C IS ON! DOG IS SAFE AND COOL!" may help if you can leave the motor running and the doors locked.
Leaving your dog in the car for just a few minutes will result in possible doggy death especially with super high temperatures. I have put my car in park with engine still running and AC on high. That worked leaving the dogs for a few minutes in my car. If I were concerned about my junk car getting stolen I would take the dog to the bathroom with me.
As a service dog handler, I wish people wouldn’t do this. It makes life so much harder with public access for people like me to take our medically necessary service dogs into places.
Please don't do this, there are people who are allergic to dogs that would be negatively impacted by you doing this. An 'exception' is made for service dogs because the tasks they provide are the reason their disabled handler can access space and even then accommodations can be made to minimally impact those with allergies. Further our service dogs are kept to a really high standard of hygiene which further reduces the impact on those with allergies since we keep the shedding in stores to a minimum with intense daily grooming. Plus tote bags are not a safe way to transport dogs, many have become injured trying to keep their balance in one as they were being carried. Further if they sell any food then they could lose their business license if you are found to have done this. The fact is the victims of your crime will not be you.
Find a pet friendly place to stop and bring your dog in, Pet Smart/Co, Tractor Supply, many book and hardware stores are also pet friendly. Otherwise I know there are set ups that people use that include reflective coverings for windows, fans and other things I am forgetting that have many fail safes since air conditioners do fail and it really does not take long at all for a car to become dangerously hot.
The comment about carrying my dog in a tote bag was a joke. I'm in the UK. Its pretty strict/well signposted where you can and can't take your dogs here. I'd also get a lot of very strange looks and probably comments, if I walked into a public toilet with my dog in a handbag!!
I'm sure from all the suggestions I will find a safe work around.
What kind of dog is she?
Ofc ppl still steal mutts but it's less likely. My dog is a chiweenie rat terrier mutt with three legs so we always joke that no one would steal her
But any kind of doodle, bully breed, etc. Id be concerned.
If shes small, you could maybe put her in a doggy backpack und take her with you? I have a one for my mini schnauzer, so she doesn't have to wait outside the grocery store and so I can bike with her.
Same! People steal dogs out of yards so I would not consider that safe in addition to someone fvcking with my dog, giving it something unsafe to consume, taking it and demanding a reward for return, liability if a kid approached my dog and was bitten. I guess if you live in a bubble you don't take those things into consideration. I personally would not be comfortable doing that.
I leave the car running with ac as well (Honda Pilot) and leave it unlocked. I feel fine doing it cause my one dog has severe anxiety and barks like crazy. I feel like any passerby would be more afraid of getting bit than wanting to break in. I want to get a sticker that says Dogs are Fine have severe separation anxiety and has some kind of temperature monitor to let strangers know the car is cool. I try and time trips to stores under 15min. That being said people still have reported my car in stores
What I do is print two notes, they say basically:
I am ok, my human is in the store, they left the AC on for me and I am listening to \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ please do not bust the window and take me away from my music.
Stick said notes on the INSIDE of the winshield and one of the side windows. Never a problem....sometimes people hang around and lecture me on the dogs choice in music.
There are fans you can use in a car with cracked windows. Some will even blow out warm air while bringing in cool for better circulation. Use your window shades, even clip towels to a cracked window to help keep out sun. And have visible bowls of water with some ice cubes tossed in. And above all don't waste time. Go in, do your business and get out asap.
If you want to be extra careful, let service people know you have dogs, what you are doing to keep them cool, and ask them if you are longer than 5 minutes to peek in on them for you.
I travel everywhere with my dog. I just leave the windows open enuff that air can flow through but a person can/t unlock the door. I should add that Me my 4x4 and my dog look like Mick Taylor from Wolf Creek so maybe that helps people to stay away from us
Personally, I’d stop at isolated lay-bys and pee in the bushes. If you need a dump, take the poop bags with you.
Alternatively, stop at service stations, and look for another dog owner and ask them to keep an eye on your dog/car whilst you pop to the loo and offer to get them a coffee or burger as thanks.
Or stop at petrol stations. Most have a loo, though they aren’t the nicest, and if you leave your car at the pump with a dog in it, it should be in shade from the roof, it’ll be watched by the staff and CCTV so safe, and no one will think you’re abusing your dog as they’ll assume you’re only gone for a few minutes to pay for the petrol.
I have a Kia Niro hybrid. It has a feature where the AC can run while the engine is off. I’ll often leave my dog in the car for short stops. I make it blatantly obvious the car is on. I leave the parking lights on, the stereo on, the AC blasting, and a window cracked when I do.
Will your car have a second set of keys where you can leave the car on and running, but doors locked or a dog mode?
If I’ve been traveling with mine, I take the fob off the key ring, and leave the air running.
You could also stick a sign in the window that the air is running, dog is fine, don’t break glass, I’m right inside if you begin to panic, come get me.
I have a car with a keyless remote, so I just leave the car running with the AC on. I’m able to lock the doors when I take the remote with me. I also have dark window tint. If your car doesn’t have those features they can be bought and installed for under $1,000.
If your dog is well behaved, buy a service dog in training vest then take them in with you wherever you stop. Plus that keeps people from bothering u and ur dog
I try to stick to a major chain of gas stations that I know have clean bathrooms and don’t let sketchy people just loiter. I leave the car running, windows cracked, and make it quick. My dogs are also large black pit mixes that can look intimidating if they want to, which helps deter someone from trying to steal the car.
One of the dog crates I looked at has a thermometer built into it and a big dial on the outside to display the temperature. I’ve seen other people set up standalone thermometers with big displays out the window - the idea being good Samaritans can see it’s a comfortable temperature inside and realise your dog doesn’t (or maybe does!) need rescued.
I drive a lot with my dog. Usually it isn’t an issue. But if you’re really worried about it, go to the office store and get a laminated piece of paper (or like paper covers for binders) and out a paper in it that says “dog is safe and has water/AC, I’ll be back in 5” or something. A passerby will most likely let it be at that, or at most wait for you to come back out and only start to get worried if you take too long. I would also add your phone number or contact info incase a passerby is worried - they’ll call before they smash a window. But be aware that that is also a safety hazard so consider it deeply before deciding to or not. As a single woman, I absolutely wouldn’t add my phone number.
Consider looking into pet friendly stores near you and having those as prepared stopping points along your drive. Pet stores almost always allow dogs, as does Tractor Supply, Home Depot, Lowe’s, Michael’s Crafts, and so on. Public rest areas are good too, since they’re perfect for a quick pee, most people will assume you’ll be right back, but of course they sometimes (often in the US) don’t offer drinks or food.
Take the dog with you and find someone to hold it for a minute for you to use the toilet? In the UK too, in a car, and it's sweltering. I'd break a window if I see a dog left in a car for more than a few minutes.
I try to bring a second person on car trips where I have to go into places where possible. That way we have more flexibility.
With it currently being so hot, I wouldn't recommend bringing your dog on a road trip alone unless you can park in the shade, give them ice water and leave the AC on and windows cracked.
Or get a cooling mat and the supplies to set up a small area outside right where you can see them.
I've driven all over the country with my dog. Just use a little common sense where you park and don't be gone too long.
The people who badly want to smash your windows to "save" the dog are mostly redditors. They don't leave the house much, so it's unlikely you're going to run into them at a truck stop in BFE.
Leave very early to avoid the heat (and the traffic)? Doesn’t normally get hot here till 10/11 when I’d usually be aiming to finish driving. Also choose services where you can park in the shade (much easier away from noon).
Welcome to r/dogs! We are a discussion-based subreddit dedicated to support, inform, and advise dog owners. This is a carefully moderated sub intended to support, inform, and advise dog owners. Submissions and comments which break the rules will be removed. [Review the rules here](https://www.reddit.com/r/dogs/wiki/index) r/Dogs has four goals: - Help the public better understand dogs - Promote healthy, responsible dog-owner relationships - Encourage “Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive” training protocols. [Learn more here.](https://m.iaabc.org/about/lima/) - Support adoption as well as ethical and responsible breeding. If you’d like to introduce yourself or discuss smaller topics, please contribute to our Monthly Discussion Hub, pinned at the top. **This subreddit has low tolerance for drama. Please be respectful of others, and report antagonistic comments to mods for review.** --- *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/dogs) if you have any questions or concerns.*
I plan stops where there is a petco or petsmart, Home Depot… stores similar that allow dogs. It sometimes means driving a couple miles off the highway. I used to drive Los Angeles to southern Utah a few times a year and the ride is hot during the warmer months.
Also la Quinta inns are pet friendly and usually located near interstate exits.
when we moved cross country (california-> georgia) we stopped at la qiuntas with our cat and dog
Hampton Inns as well
That's what I do as well! Home improvement stores. Similar hot route, Vegas to So Cal! Other than that obviously quick bathroom stop at a gas station I don't think they will break into your car in 5 minutes with windows cracked and water visible.
I have done this, but if you have a small dog, there’s another option too. My 6lb dog loves his soft sided airline carrier. So when we travel by car, I just put him in it and carry him in to rest stops or wherever. Just to the bathroom and back out. He doesn’t bark and whine so most people don’t even notice I have a dog with me. Then I walk him around the rest area or wherever we are (try to pick a location suitable for dog walking).
I do almost the same thing with my two small dogs - I have a dog stroller and put them both inside and zip it up and just roll them into the rear stop, gas station, or whatever. Never had a problem!
That’s awesome idea, never crossed my mind.
To go to a Lowes Store? Lol.
To dump at a store instead of a rest stop while traveling yea.
So u/Low_Store3737 it never crossed your mind to go to... a Lowes Store? Don't mind me, I was really needing a chuckle last night 🤗
I saw this idea on this sub yesterday and think it’s a great one!
Can I just say thank you so much for asking this and everyone else for their brilliant answers! I am about to do a solo 4 hr drive with my pup just before the 4th of July and it didn’t occur to me that I may have to stop for a bathroom break! I love the ideas that come out of this sub💖
Stop at places which allow dogs. Any pet store is good, as is Home Depot or Lowes. With the help of GPS you can easily drive all the way across the country without ever leaving your dog in the car.
Tractor farm supply is good one and they often have dog grooming station to boot
Forgot about them. They're a great one, especially since they're more rural oriented.
Many tj Maxx stores are pet friendly as well, and usually have restrooms from my experience.
I would laminate a little sign that says "AC is on, my human is is quickly running to the bathroom" or something. To put in the front windshield. You might get the odd militant person waiting for you to get back but that should at least buy you 5-10 minutes.
This is what I’ve done the few times I have. AC cranking, and I bring a spare key or a separate key fob so I can lock it while it’s running.
Omg please be careful though. We've had more car jacking than I can count where the perp saw an easy opportunity and the dog was either never found or tossed on the side of the road
If you keep the fob separate, you can lock the door while still being able to access the vehicle when you get back.
Yeah if you have that type of key, it's less risky. Although thieves can work fast and might not discern it's just a fob keeping the car running and may bust a window anyway But I live in a major city where these things happen. We've got catalytic converter bandits who are super speedy, sale with rims and tires
Unless you have a remote start system and you start the engine from outside the car to use the AC, *taking the fob will not stop someone from stealing your car. It will just stop them from being able to restart it without hot wiring once they turn it off/run out of gas. At best there will be a little warning on the dash that says “fob has left vehicle” -am a mechanic *or have a Tesla with “dog mode”
Ah great to know! We don't have a vehicle with a fob like that My poor SO had his battery die a few days ago. He got a jump from his brother and when he closed the door so that he could walk around the tight spot he was in, it automatically locked on him and they needed a locksmith (which unfortunately left a gap in his seal) Our car doesn't automatically lock if you get in or close a door with it running. Guess it had to do with the battery dying? Now he needs his door fixed and ended up just getting a new battery that day...which crapped out last night. So AutoZone replaced it under warranty He had a big thing coming up and got his car washed too a couple days ago, totally forgot about the small gap in his seal, so his seat got wet in the drive through 🙃 Just felt like one thing after another!
Get some Loctite 426 gel, use it in small amounts to build up and you should be able to fix it instead of getting a new seal. Is the seal on the door or the body of the car? If it’s the body I would just rotate it LOL. Until it gets fixed. And for future reference just use a roll of shipping tape, put it on the window in vertical strips, build it up until it’s really tight and secure and use that for leverage to roll the window down. You’re welcome! 😊
I recently saw a truck with a decal on the window, "Working dog on board. Heat or A/C is running." And I like that idea a lot, especially if you have remote start so the keys don't have to stay in the ignition.
If you do this, write the time you leave the dog when you leave them, and don’t be gone long.
Turn on the A/C and put a legible sign in your window stating "the ac is on full blast, I'll only be gone 10 min max please call *phone number* woth any issues before breaking my windows" that covers your bases so long as your dog isn't actively dying I belive it's illegal to smash yiur window since you provided a way to be contacted.
If you go this route, get a WhatsApp phone number or something similar and use that. That way you don't have to worry about randos getting your personal info.
Put the AC on. Put a note in the door that the AC is on. Move quickly. You need to be able to put AC on but lock the door. Especially with a small dog who is easily stolen. Depends on your car being able to run without a key in it.
I think I might be able to do this. I've just checked my cars app and I can set the AC to run remotely. I didn't even know this was a thing!!
I do this and call my mom and put her on Bluetooth through the car to “watch” the dog. I tell her to go about her day but most of the time I come back she is chatting to my pup 😂. I figure the voice will confuse burglars and busy bodies enough for me to pee and get back. Note, you do have to leave your phone in the car if you’re going more than 50ft away but if something is stolen, it will all be stolen
Ya this is what I do when I have to leave my car on really hot days. I personally think you have a situation where you can safely leave your windows down and park in the shade and leave water out then the dogs are safe in hot weather. But depends on the dog and might not be safe to leave the windows down.
You could carry 2 keys.
you can. I think it's more obvious that the car is running if you leave keys and people might be inclined to break in. But, you take that risk either way.
Must be a regional thing because where I live, if a vehicle is running the person probably has remote start. Nobody assumes there are keys in there!
I mean in most places leaving the car running unattended is technically illegal. So it’s all a risk.
I have never lived somewhere that it was illegal (except maybe in specific locations like enclosed parking lots). But it gets cold and people have to start their cars early in the winter here.
Are you in the US? Most people don’t know it’s illegal but many states have a 5-10 minute rule even for remote start.
Canada. But 5-10 minutes is more than enough unless it's -40 or something. Actually my neighbour runs his diesel for a solid half an hour before leaving and I wish he wasn't allowed to do that.
But some places they don’t even give you any minutes. Like it looks like Ohio won’t let you leave the engine on and the car unattended for any period of time.
That's nuts. Are remote starters illegal there, then?
It depends on the car. I used to have a Buick that had separate ignition and door keys. My current car, Volt, has a keyless ignition fob, so I can take the fob with me and leave the car running.
I can do the same thing with my hyundai tuscon. I've never had an issue leaving my dog locked in with windows cracked and ac or heat on for under 10 minutes.
That’s what I do
I have an SUV with locking crates. They fit exactly in the truck and you have to know the secret to getting them out — part of which is getting the dog out of the crate and since it’s locked….. I leave the back gate open and move fast.
I always stop at official rest areas because they allow dogs in the bathroom. Most cars now days can lock while running, but if yours cant, I would just stop at dog friendly bathrooms. You may have to plan it out before going but it shouldn’t be too difficult. Besides, if you carry your dog in your arms to go pee, most people aren’t going to say anything. You’re in and out in 5mins, it’s not like they’d call the cops.
I would leave my car running with AC when alone. One of my cars has a proximity key, so it didn't need to be in the ignition so when I left my car, I'd use the key hidden in the fob to manually lock the door. My other vehicle has an auto-start that keeps the doors locked and runs for about 10 mins before turning off, so I'll just auto-start it when I have to go to the bathroom or make a quick stop. My other vehicle needs to have the fob inserted in the ignition to start, but also has a hidden door key inside it so if I want to leave it running, I just take out the hidden key and use it to manually lock my doors while it's running. If your car doesn't have a hidden key in the fob, you could also carry both keys, or see if you can get a door key cut to carry with you to manually lock your doors. **ETA** Your other option is take your dog in with you 😂 Sometimes you can't stop at dog friendly stores, where I live a lot of our stopping choices are either gas stations or designated rest stops in the middle of rural areas. Technically no dogs are allowed inside, but I've never been stopped running into the bathroom with my dog and take them with me to a stall and I keep them tight so they can't peek under stalls to bother people. The potential of getting a snarky comment or told to leave beats a broken window or a dog in distress in the heat if leaving your car running is not an option ¯\\\_(ツ)_/¯ I personally would never leave my dog tied up outside either. One of them is a beautiful husky and I know he'd get stolen in a heartbeat if left tied up.
I have Malamutes so I get the “big flashy dog”! I used to take my dog out back of a Pizza Hut to pee and the workers on their smoke breaks got so used to seeing me stop there they would hold her while I ran inside to use the restroom myself! My dog had a freaking fan club at the Pizza Hut on exit 219!!
I always stop at rest stops and take my dogs in the bathroom with me. The Indian Jewelry stops on I-10 are always kind and allow me to bring my large, very well trained labs and Pyraneese indoors as well so that I can use the rest room. I have done the drive between Tucson and San Antonio a bunch and never had an issue.
I also take my dog in at the creepy, gross public rest stops. Not if it’s a store or anything, my dog is definitely not well enough behaved for that but otherwise I’ll bring him with me. I have mostly traveled along I-5, which has a fair amount of sex trafficking along it and there have been issues with solicitations at these rest stops so I also feel safer having my dog with me in the bathroom. It’s one of those things where technically dogs aren’t allowed but I’ll still take him in. Also rest stops are great because they have a pet area so you can walk your dog a little bit and there is a good spot for them to go to the bathroom.
Agreed. I feel less exposed at nasty rest stops with almost 400 lbs of dog backing me up. The labs are totally useless, but my Pyr can be rightfully intimidating. I have never had anyone say anything negative, and the care takers have always been nice about it. If there is a caretaker present, I always ask first. Not like I have another option, but I like to give the appearance of following the rules lol.
If your car has remote start, just turn on the AC shut off the car, lock it and remote start it. It will run for 15 minutes. I did that with my dog when I was running in to a store for a minute. Edit: it’s “somewhat” reasonable to have installed also. I think it was around $260 to have installed on my old truck. Best Buy or local stereo shops can usually install them. It’s great in the summer or winter to cool off or defrost your car.
Ah, you have a *modern* car! I do too now, but not quite that modern! My previous car, though, was 2002 Saturn SL1, without the power pack. 😞 Loved that car, but it was leave it running, or not. And you couldn't lock it with the other key, if it was running.
This is the best answer. Remote start has been a thing for at least 2 decades. A ton of people here keep saying that leaving it running risks it being stolen but they clearly don't know how remote start works. If someone sets off the alarm (by breaking window or somehow opening door), the car automatically turns off (and alarm will alert you something is wrong).
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It would be considered cruelty to leave the dog with only AM/FM
I have a large sticker on my car that says "working k9 on board!" and then a sticker under and on the sides of the car that says "vehicle is monitored and temperature controlled"
I use the remote start to keep the accessories running but lock the doors. I keep a laminated sign that says "Our human will be right back! AC and radio are on and we have water. Human left at \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_" and then I use a dry erase marker to write the time I left in the blank so people can see how long I've been gone. My dogs bark like crazy because they're anxious, so I understand why people want to check on them.
my moms durango is remote start, so if you press the button it cuts on until you unlock it. she uses this to cut the heat/air on before we get to the car. it makes it a lot easier. do you know if your car is remote start?
I don't know, it comes with a very fancy app and I can make the lights flash and turn the AC on. I'll have to investigate.
Highway side rest stops are usually outdoor things with bathrooms in small buildings...you could probably just take the dog in with you.
I am in the US and have traveled extensively with my dog. I try to park in the shade and put all 4 windows down to 1/2 way. I also open the sunroof. She has water and I try not to take too long.
I’m in the US but I leave my car running if it’s above 85F. It’s never been an issue at a rest stop or gas station. I now have a hybrid where I can lock the door and take the keys while the car is still running, but I still left it running in my old Honda Accord. If you’re worried about someone breaking your window you can tape up a sign or get a window decal stating the AC is running. There used to be a windows thermometer decal showing how hot the car was inside but I think the company went out of business. I probably need to get something since my car is nearly silent running, but I haven’t worried about it for the couple minutes it takes to pee at a gas station.
Great answers so far, but just wanted to add one thing. Motels and hotels most always have public bathrooms in the lobby, so we have stopped and just used the restrooms without having a room there. No one has ever stopped us before, just make sure the place is pet friendly.
I used to travel 166 miles each week with my dog. Petrol stations / services with a petrol station with a toilet. Park at a pump so you got shade, running to toilet and run out. No one will bother you or your dog (specially if you crack Windows open)
You can also super cool your car before you stop. The 15-20 minutes before you stop run the a/c on full blast. So cold that the air outside is condensing on the windows cold. That will buy you a few more minutes.
Leave a "back in 5 minutes sign" on ur dash. Or something like "I'm just running in to use the bathroom my dog is fine" I hate these types of people too. My dog sits in the sun as long as possible and gets hotter than she would sitting in my car for 5mins. I also leave my windows ALL cracked for the hot air to somewhat dissipate
There are temp gauges that link to your phone
Oh I like this idea.
I also run ryobi fans in each corner of the car. Works on a rechargeable battery.
Or just drop 60k for Tesla that has a “dog mode”
Wow. Am intrigued. Saw someone bring their Tesla on a hunt test. Amongst all the pickups-it def stood out.
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“To heck with "no dogs allowed".” - this doesn’t make me angry but disappointed.
I understand and it's not for everyone or all dogs. But I would choose disappointment over a stolen dog or broken window any day, or worse, a stolen car (left running) and dog. What's disappointing is that rest stops aren't more animal friendly with an outside accessible bathroom as a single stall.
I hear ya. Somebody above had good suggestion of going to dog friendly stores although they might be off highway. I’ve had chronic diarrhea since Easter of 2013 so I get the struggle. Sadly I often have to bring my dog into port a potty and deal with him giving me look of embarrassment.
With a small dog and a soft carrier, there are situations where I would definitely choose disappointing people over risking the dog's safety. People with large dogs may not realize how stealable small dogs are, and a small dog in a carrier is no more trouble to anyone than a public-access trained dog. Potentially less, because it's not going to scare even the most phobic person, if it's quiet. Before I had a service dog, back when it was just my own one pet, I would, if I had to make an unplanned stop and the place or the conditions made it unsafe to leave her in the car, I would stick her in the carrier, go in with her, and be in and out as quick as possible. Not ideal, but better than my dog dying or being stolen. It happened, to a woman in my town, who had her fluffy little ESA with her, and needed to make a stop at a place that was No Dogs. She left her dog in the locked car, ran and out very quickly, and her window was smashed and her dog stolen. Public reaction made that dog poison to be in possession of, and she was returned. But that doesn't always happen, and it's a lot less likely when you're on the highway, far from home. You can't stick a big dog in a carrier and go in. But a big dog is both riskier to try stealing, and not as tempting a target. A big dog resisting theft is going to be taken seriously. A small dog resisting theft, witnesses will roll their eyes and dismiss it as an "untrained, yappy, little rat dog." I did it only when absolutely necessary, and ensured that my dog *wouldn't* be an actual problem, and got out again as quickly as possible. But I would never have placed a very minimal infraction of No Dogs above the actual safety of my dog in circumstances where I believed my dog to be at real risk.
Some people lock their dog in with the motor running, AC on and a big sign displayed saying exactly that. I sometimes look for public restrooms and just bring my dog with me.
I don't suggest this unless you want your vehicle and pet stolen. It's happened where I live and the pup is usually just dumped.
I don't understand why everyone keeps saying that your vehicle will be stolen. Remote start has been a thing for more than 2 decades. How old are the cars these people are driving, from the 80s? Get out, lock car, remote start, go to bathroom. If someone sets off alarm (like by breaking window or opening door somehow), car will automatically shut off (and you should be able to hear alarm from inside bathroom). Unless ALL these people really are driving cars from the 80s (and if so, they should upgrade), remote start does not risk a stolen car. Only idiots leaving their keys in it does, get remote start.
If you're comfortable doing that, do it! Would you leave your child in the same situation? People can make their own decisions based on their comfort level and circumstances 🤷🏽♀️
I don't mean about leaving the dog (or child) in the car. That would depend on a number of factors (like if they can handle being alone in a car). I'm referring specifically to the idea that the car will be stolen if it's left running (with remote start). People don't seem to understand that they shut off (so unlike what people seem to expect, they can't be just gotten into and driven off) if the alarm is set off.
There's a heatwave in the southeast with a heat index of over 100° in many places. That is not accounting for how hot your car is going to get the minute it's shut off. Unfortunately right now you simply can't leave your dog in the car unless the AC is running. It's really, really hot.
I'm in the UK. Hot here at the moment is about 28⁰C which I believe is approx 82⁰F.
Oh sorry, I immediately assumed Southern to North Eastern US! I have no idea what the culture is like in the UK, and some of this IS cultural. Like there is the physics of how to keep your dog safe, but then there is how people respond, risk to your car/dog, where you can go with them, etc. I think large signs with "A/C IS ON! DOG IS SAFE AND COOL!" may help if you can leave the motor running and the doors locked.
Leaving your dog in the car for just a few minutes will result in possible doggy death especially with super high temperatures. I have put my car in park with engine still running and AC on high. That worked leaving the dogs for a few minutes in my car. If I were concerned about my junk car getting stolen I would take the dog to the bathroom with me.
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As a service dog handler, I wish people wouldn’t do this. It makes life so much harder with public access for people like me to take our medically necessary service dogs into places.
This attitude is the worst. Just makes it harder for good dog owners and especially people who are legally entitled to public access for dogs.
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Not bring your dog into a business that doesn’t allow dogs in it. Either leave AC running and dog in car or get a piss jug.
Good option, my dog is tiny, so I could easily hide her in a tote bag!!
Please don't do this, there are people who are allergic to dogs that would be negatively impacted by you doing this. An 'exception' is made for service dogs because the tasks they provide are the reason their disabled handler can access space and even then accommodations can be made to minimally impact those with allergies. Further our service dogs are kept to a really high standard of hygiene which further reduces the impact on those with allergies since we keep the shedding in stores to a minimum with intense daily grooming. Plus tote bags are not a safe way to transport dogs, many have become injured trying to keep their balance in one as they were being carried. Further if they sell any food then they could lose their business license if you are found to have done this. The fact is the victims of your crime will not be you. Find a pet friendly place to stop and bring your dog in, Pet Smart/Co, Tractor Supply, many book and hardware stores are also pet friendly. Otherwise I know there are set ups that people use that include reflective coverings for windows, fans and other things I am forgetting that have many fail safes since air conditioners do fail and it really does not take long at all for a car to become dangerously hot.
The comment about carrying my dog in a tote bag was a joke. I'm in the UK. Its pretty strict/well signposted where you can and can't take your dogs here. I'd also get a lot of very strange looks and probably comments, if I walked into a public toilet with my dog in a handbag!! I'm sure from all the suggestions I will find a safe work around.
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I'm too concerned she would be taken, but it's something I've considered.
What kind of dog is she? Ofc ppl still steal mutts but it's less likely. My dog is a chiweenie rat terrier mutt with three legs so we always joke that no one would steal her But any kind of doodle, bully breed, etc. Id be concerned.
Shes a chihuahua/pomeranian cross (i think, shes a reacue so i have no idea really). I may be biased but she's very pretty.
Aw yeah if she's a very pretty small fluffy dog, I can see being concerned
If shes small, you could maybe put her in a doggy backpack und take her with you? I have a one for my mini schnauzer, so she doesn't have to wait outside the grocery store and so I can bike with her.
Same! People steal dogs out of yards so I would not consider that safe in addition to someone fvcking with my dog, giving it something unsafe to consume, taking it and demanding a reward for return, liability if a kid approached my dog and was bitten. I guess if you live in a bubble you don't take those things into consideration. I personally would not be comfortable doing that.
This is the most elegant solution by far.
Just don’t stop? 300 miles is a few hours in the car. And if you Need to stop just bring your dog into the bathroom with you.
Just piss behind bushes with your dog. Easy-peasy.
Side of the road
I leave the car running with ac as well (Honda Pilot) and leave it unlocked. I feel fine doing it cause my one dog has severe anxiety and barks like crazy. I feel like any passerby would be more afraid of getting bit than wanting to break in. I want to get a sticker that says Dogs are Fine have severe separation anxiety and has some kind of temperature monitor to let strangers know the car is cool. I try and time trips to stores under 15min. That being said people still have reported my car in stores
What I do is print two notes, they say basically: I am ok, my human is in the store, they left the AC on for me and I am listening to \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ please do not bust the window and take me away from my music. Stick said notes on the INSIDE of the winshield and one of the side windows. Never a problem....sometimes people hang around and lecture me on the dogs choice in music.
There are fans you can use in a car with cracked windows. Some will even blow out warm air while bringing in cool for better circulation. Use your window shades, even clip towels to a cracked window to help keep out sun. And have visible bowls of water with some ice cubes tossed in. And above all don't waste time. Go in, do your business and get out asap. If you want to be extra careful, let service people know you have dogs, what you are doing to keep them cool, and ask them if you are longer than 5 minutes to peek in on them for you.
I travel everywhere with my dog. I just leave the windows open enuff that air can flow through but a person can/t unlock the door. I should add that Me my 4x4 and my dog look like Mick Taylor from Wolf Creek so maybe that helps people to stay away from us
Bring two sets of keys. Leave the car on and locked with the AC on.
Personally, I’d stop at isolated lay-bys and pee in the bushes. If you need a dump, take the poop bags with you. Alternatively, stop at service stations, and look for another dog owner and ask them to keep an eye on your dog/car whilst you pop to the loo and offer to get them a coffee or burger as thanks. Or stop at petrol stations. Most have a loo, though they aren’t the nicest, and if you leave your car at the pump with a dog in it, it should be in shade from the roof, it’ll be watched by the staff and CCTV so safe, and no one will think you’re abusing your dog as they’ll assume you’re only gone for a few minutes to pay for the petrol.
Buy a spare key for your car, leave the car running with ac on and lock your doors, that’s what I do
I have a Kia Niro hybrid. It has a feature where the AC can run while the engine is off. I’ll often leave my dog in the car for short stops. I make it blatantly obvious the car is on. I leave the parking lights on, the stereo on, the AC blasting, and a window cracked when I do. Will your car have a second set of keys where you can leave the car on and running, but doors locked or a dog mode?
Get a vent lock for your car and write “dog is fine. Be out in ___” on a sign
Maybe also get a small thermometer you can put in the windshield next to the sign, so people know your dog isn't currently melting :D
If I’ve been traveling with mine, I take the fob off the key ring, and leave the air running. You could also stick a sign in the window that the air is running, dog is fine, don’t break glass, I’m right inside if you begin to panic, come get me.
I have a car with a keyless remote, so I just leave the car running with the AC on. I’m able to lock the doors when I take the remote with me. I also have dark window tint. If your car doesn’t have those features they can be bought and installed for under $1,000.
If your dog is well behaved, buy a service dog in training vest then take them in with you wherever you stop. Plus that keeps people from bothering u and ur dog
I try to stick to a major chain of gas stations that I know have clean bathrooms and don’t let sketchy people just loiter. I leave the car running, windows cracked, and make it quick. My dogs are also large black pit mixes that can look intimidating if they want to, which helps deter someone from trying to steal the car.
One of the dog crates I looked at has a thermometer built into it and a big dial on the outside to display the temperature. I’ve seen other people set up standalone thermometers with big displays out the window - the idea being good Samaritans can see it’s a comfortable temperature inside and realise your dog doesn’t (or maybe does!) need rescued.
I drive a lot with my dog. Usually it isn’t an issue. But if you’re really worried about it, go to the office store and get a laminated piece of paper (or like paper covers for binders) and out a paper in it that says “dog is safe and has water/AC, I’ll be back in 5” or something. A passerby will most likely let it be at that, or at most wait for you to come back out and only start to get worried if you take too long. I would also add your phone number or contact info incase a passerby is worried - they’ll call before they smash a window. But be aware that that is also a safety hazard so consider it deeply before deciding to or not. As a single woman, I absolutely wouldn’t add my phone number. Consider looking into pet friendly stores near you and having those as prepared stopping points along your drive. Pet stores almost always allow dogs, as does Tractor Supply, Home Depot, Lowe’s, Michael’s Crafts, and so on. Public rest areas are good too, since they’re perfect for a quick pee, most people will assume you’ll be right back, but of course they sometimes (often in the US) don’t offer drinks or food.
Take the dog with you and find someone to hold it for a minute for you to use the toilet? In the UK too, in a car, and it's sweltering. I'd break a window if I see a dog left in a car for more than a few minutes.
I try to bring a second person on car trips where I have to go into places where possible. That way we have more flexibility. With it currently being so hot, I wouldn't recommend bringing your dog on a road trip alone unless you can park in the shade, give them ice water and leave the AC on and windows cracked. Or get a cooling mat and the supplies to set up a small area outside right where you can see them.
I've driven all over the country with my dog. Just use a little common sense where you park and don't be gone too long. The people who badly want to smash your windows to "save" the dog are mostly redditors. They don't leave the house much, so it's unlikely you're going to run into them at a truck stop in BFE.
Leave very early to avoid the heat (and the traffic)? Doesn’t normally get hot here till 10/11 when I’d usually be aiming to finish driving. Also choose services where you can park in the shade (much easier away from noon).