Bend police respond to 20 calls about dogs left in hot cars this month, one dog dies

(Update: adding Bend police comments, information about dog death)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- With temperatures soaring, the Bend Police Department is reminding pet owners to leave their dogs at home when running errands.

Police say they've responded to 20 calls about dogs left inside vehicles since the beginning of August, including one case in which officers discovered a dog that had died from the heat. The owner was cited.

Even on a mild day, the inside of a vehicle can heat up dangerously fast, including when windows are cracked or the vehicle is parked in the shade. Police say the safest option is to leave pets at home.

“The best thing we would ask is for you to leave your dog home somewhere,” Bend Police Department Communications Manager Sheila Miller said. “They're comfortable. It's more comfortable for you. It's more comfortable for the dog. It's more comfortable for passers by.”

Police say there have also been occasional false alarms involving dogs inside vehicles. Some newer electric vehicles have a “Pet Mode” or “Dog Mode” that keeps the vehicle running and the air conditioning on while the owner is away.

Bend police say officers will look for an indicator on the vehicle's center console showing that the feature is active. If a dog appears comfortable and the vehicle is displaying a pet mode notification, officers may not need to investigate further. If the animal appears overheated or in distress, police will respond.

Officials say leaving a pet in a hot vehicle can quickly become dangerous and urge owners to make arrangements for their animals before heading out.