06/08/2026
As temperatures continue to rise, we want to remind everyone how dangerous it can be to leave pets unattended in vehicles.
Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a vehicle can climb to dangerous levels within minutes. Cracking the windows or parking in the shade does not provide adequate protection from heat-related illness.
Unfortunately, Animal Control has responded to calls in the past involving animals left in vehicles where the outcome was tragic. These situations can become life-threatening much faster than many people realize.
Please remember if your pet cannot go inside with you, leave them at home.
The City of Manhattan takes these situations seriously. Manhattan Municipal Ordinance Sec. 6-29, Cruelty to Animals, states: (a) It shall be unlawful for any person to be cruel to animals. Cruelty to animals is: (4) Leaving any animal unattended in a vehicle, when such vehicle does not have adequate ventilation and temperature to prevent suffering, disability or death to such animal.
Help us keep our pets safe this summer. If you see an animal in distress due to heat, contact local law enforcement or Animal Control immediately.
A few minutes can make the difference between life and death.
https://library.municode.com/ks/manhattan/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=COOR_CH6ANFO_ARTIIDOCA_DIV1GE_S6-29CRAN
