Subscribe to trusted local news
In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.
- Subscription costs less than £1 a week with an annual plan.
Already a subscriber? Log in here.
19
Jul 2022
Bystanders smash car window to rescue four dogs in Harrogate
Bystanders in Harrogate had to smash a car window today to free four dogs who were trapped for 40 minutes without even a window open.
Ruth Watson and her partner had been shopping at Aldi on Oak Beck Road at around midday when they spotted the labradors who were visibly distressed and barking in the sweltering heat, which has topped 38 degrees today.
Dogs in hot cars can suffer from potentially fatal heat stroke in as little as 15 minutes.
Ms Watson told the Stray Ferret she went inside B&Q, which is next door to the supermarket, to ask staff to broadcast a message on the tannoy to try and find the owner but there was no response.
A group had congregated around the car with people bringing buckets of water ready to cool them down.
She said:
Quick thinking staff at the DIY store used a hammer to smash open the window and set the animals free.
Read more:
- LIVE: Harrogate district businesses close as temperatures approach 39 degrees
- Harrogate blogger devastated after scammers blackmail her
Fortunately, there were vets working at the nearby Pets At Home who were able to give the animals immediate medical attention. However, one of the dogs had to be carried away and Ms Watson said it looked in poor health.
The owner eventually came out to the car but Ms Watson said "He seemed oblivious like he'd done nothing wrong."
She added:
Abi Linden was also shopping at the time and spotted the incident take place. She said what she saw was "appalling" and called on the police to take action against the owner.
She said:
A North Yorkshire Police officer was believed to have attended the scene. The Stray Ferret has asked NYP for comment on the incident. We have also asked the vets for an update on the dogs.
0