Can You Be Charged with a Crime in California for Leaving Your Dog in the Car?

Depending on the circumstances, you could be charged with a misdemeanor offense.

Can You Be Charged with a Crime in California for Leaving Your Dog in the Car?

This summer, California has experienced a period of extremely high temperatures, often soaring about 100 degrees. Combined with wild fires, power outages and the COVID-19 pandemic, this has made life incredibly hard for many Californians — and their pets.

One of the primary dangers that dogs, cats, and other animals face in this type of heat is the potential for getting very sick or even dying if they are left outside for too long. Another risk is the possibility of an animal dying if left unattended in a car. According to a criminal defense attorney in Riverside, CA, pet owners who leave their dog, cat, or other animal in a car may even be charged with a criminal offense.

Under California law, it is illegal to leave a dog or other animal inside of an unattended motor vehicle if the conditions would endanger their health or well-being. The question of whether their health or well-being is endangered depends on the circumstances, such as the temperature (hot or cold), whether there is adequate ventilation, if the animal has food or water, how long the animal was left alone, or if there was any condition that could be expected to cause suffering or distress.

If a person violates this law, they may be charged with either an infraction or a misdemeanor. A prosector may choose to file an infraction if the animal does not suffer great bodily injury. The punishment for this crime is a $100 fine. However, if the animal does suffer great bodily injury, then the crime will be charged as a misdemeanor. This offense is punishable by up to 6 months in county jail and/or a fine of up to $500.

In addition to possible criminal charges, if you leave your pet unattended in your vehicle, someone may try to rescue them from the car — and they are generally permitted to do so, even if it means that your car is damaged in the process. California law permits any person to take reasonable steps to remove an animal from a motor vehicle if they have a reasonable belief that the animal’s safety is in immediate danger.

It may be tempting to run into the store while your dog waits in the car, rather than dropping the dog off at home first. In some situations, this may be fine. But in extreme weather, this can be incredibly dangerous for your pet — and may even result in criminal charges. If you do decide to leave your pet in the car, take steps to reduce the likelihood that they will be hurt. Park in the shade, leave a window partially open to allow for ventilation, and make sure that your pet has plenty of fresh water. Never leave your pet in the car if it is very hot or very cold, and limit the amount of time that your pet is unattended.

If you have been charged with a crime related to animal cruelty, such as leaving your pet unattended in the car, a criminal defense attorney in Riverside, CA can help defend you against the charges. At the Chambers Law Firm, we are highly skilled at helping people who have been charged with all types of crimes. Contact our law firm today at 714-760-4088 or dchambers@clfca.com to schedule a free initial consultation with a member of our team.

.
Call Us Today