ROCHELLE – Although it may be tempting to break a window to save a dog left in a hot car, Illinois State Police warn it is a crime to do so.
In a recent article published by the Illinois News Network, Illinois State Police Master Sergeant Jason Bradley said people get concerned when it comes to animals left inside cars.
And although several states have Good Samaritan laws to protect people who rescue animals, Illinois is not one of them.

“The best course of action if you believe there is an animal that is the victim of being exposed to prolonged heat and is in danger of death or serious injury, is to call the police,” Bradley said in the Illinois News Network article.
Rochelle Police Chief Eric Higby agrees. He advises the concerned parties get an accurate description of the vehicle, such as the make, model, and color, along with location and report it to the police.
“We will respond and if the animal is in distress we can make entry if it’s necessary,” Higby said. “Many times we get calls like this and when we get there the vehicle is gone as the owner was only gone from the dog and vehicle for a short time.”
According to Bradley the three organizations that are allowed to break a car’s window legally are law enforcement, animal control, and the Illinois Dept. of Agriculture.
Even though the Midwest is not in the “dogs days of summer” yet, it is advised not to leave animals locked inside of a car during the warm months. Temperatures quickly escalate even if the windows are cracked or open.
“It’s not advisable to leave your car running with the air conditioning on either as it’s inviting a vehicle theft,” Higby said “There have been numerous times the owner returns to find the dog has locked the keys in the car.”