It is wonderful to return home after a day at work to be greeted by a wagging tail. But what happens to your dog while you are away? Many dog owners ponder how to organise their dog’s day during working hours. One of the most common, yet dangerous, thoughts is to leave the dog in the car during the workday. The answer to this is clear: absolutely not. It is never a safe or acceptable solution.
Our expertise in pet care has shown that, although the intention may be good, a car quickly becomes a trap for a dog. The dangers range from heat and cold to stress and safety threats. Let’s go through why a car is the wrong place for a dog and what better alternatives are available.
Why is keeping a dog in a car during the workday dangerous?
Finnish law on animal welfare (693/2023) explicitly prohibits causing unnecessary pain and suffering to animals. Leaving a dog in a car during the workday is exactly that. For the owner, eight hours is a workday, but for a dog, it is an eternity in life-threatening conditions.
The treachery of temperature: hot and cold
The dangers of temperature are often downplayed. Many mistakenly believe that cloudy weather or slightly open windows make a car safe. The truth is quite the opposite.
- In summer: A car acts like a greenhouse. Even at an outdoor temperature of +20 degrees, the internal temperature of the car can rise above +40 degrees in less than an hour. A dog’s heatstroke is a stealthily developing life-threatening situation, and merely cracking the windows is not enough to cool the car effectively.
- In winter: In freezing temperatures, a car is like a metal refrigerator, poorly insulating against the cold. Even if a dog has a coat and a blanket, a long stay in the cold exposes it to hypothermia, frostbite, and illness.
Stress, boredom, and behavioural problems
A dog is a social pack animal that cannot tolerate isolation. It needs companionship, stimulation, and regular opportunities for its needs. A lonely day in a cramped car is a massive stress factor.
- Boredom: A bored dog easily expresses its frustration by destroying the car’s interior or barking incessantly.
- Anxiety: Isolation exacerbates separation anxiety. A dog does not understand why it is confined to a small space and when its owner will return.
- Physical needs: Holding in for eight hours is not only extremely uncomfortable for a dog but also harmful to its health.
Safety risks
A dog left alone in a car is an easy target for thieves and vandalism. Additionally, a well-meaning but concerned passer-by may break a car window to rescue the dog, even if the situation is not acute at that moment.
Safe and stimulating alternatives
Fortunately, there are excellent and safe solutions for dog daycare. A dog does not have to spend its days alone.
Dog daycare: The best solution for an active dog
Dog daycare is often the best solution. It is like a nursery for children, but designed for dogs – in professional care, your dog will spend the day safely playing and engaging in activities.
At Tassut.fi, a typical daycare day unfolds as follows:
- Morning play: The day begins with supervised introductions and play with other dogs in our comfortable indoor facilities.
- Outdoor activities: Throughout the day, dogs go outside and play under the supervision of our trained animal caregivers. We organise suitable stimulation according to each dog’s energy level and personality.
- Rest time: In contrast to all the activities, it is important to rest. Each dog has its own quiet spot for a nap.
- Afternoon activities: Before heading home, there is still time for calmer play and cuddles.
Dog daycare provides peace of mind for you and a stimulating day for your dog. Our Helsinki location is conveniently situated with excellent transport links, near the Raide-Jokeri stop and train station, making it easy to drop off and pick up your dog during your commute.
Other options to consider
- Dog walker: A professional dog walker who takes your dog out during the day is a great help if your dog can manage alone at home otherwise.
- Relative or friend: A trusted friend or family member can provide invaluable assistance and brighten your dog’s day.
- Dog-friendly workplace: More and more workplaces allow dogs to be brought into the office. This is a fantastic perk if it is possible.
Choose for your dog’s wellbeing
Ultimately, the choice is clear. Leaving a dog in a car during the workday is not an option, but an unnecessary risk.
Investing in quality daycare ensures your dog’s safety while also supporting its social skills and wellbeing. When you pick up a tired but happy dog from work, you know you have made the right decision.
Is your dog alone during the workday? Provide it with a stimulating and safe day in the care of our professionals. Our staff, trained in animal care, also looks after friends who require special attention, such as rescue dogs. Explore our services and easily book a spot through our booking system or get in touch, and we will be happy to tell you more!
Frequently asked questions
How much does dog daycare cost?
The price of dog daycare depends on the number of care days and any additional services. The cost is typically a few tens of euros per day – a small investment in your pet’s safety, health, and happiness. You will have peace of mind knowing your dog is doing well while you are at work.
Is daycare suitable for a shy or rescue dog?
Yes, it is often very suitable. In our experience, a professional and supervised environment helps a shy dog gain confidence. At Tassut.fi, our staff, trained in animal care, tailors a calm and individual introduction period for each new dog. This ensures that even the more sensitive dogs can adapt to the pack safely.
How quickly does a car heat up in summer?
A car heats up dangerously quickly. For example, in +22 degree sunshine, the internal temperature can rise to +47 degrees in just an hour. Even on cloudy days, the temperature can rise surprisingly high. Even a short time in a hot car can be fatal for a dog. Therefore, the rule is simple: never leave a dog alone in a car.
What does the law say about leaving a dog in a car?
The animal welfare law explicitly prohibits causing unnecessary suffering, pain, and distress to animals. Leaving a dog in a hot or cold car for an extended period is precisely this kind of illegal activity. The owner is always responsible for their pet’s safety, and negligence can lead to fines or even imprisonment.
Does my dog need vaccinations for daycare?
Yes. The safety of all dogs in our care is our top priority, so we require up-to-date vaccinations against contagious diseases. This is a fundamental practice of responsible daycare that protects both your dog and its friends.