Question: Is it "legal" to leave your dog in a car (summertime) with a/c and car running but locked? We occasionally will do this while grabbing a quick bite to eat or running a fast errand.
Answer: Minnesota State Statute 346.57 says, "A person may not leave a dog or a cat unattended in a standing or parked motor vehicle in a manner that endangers the dog's or cat's health or safety. A peace officer, as defined in section 626.84, a humane agent, a dog warden, or a volunteer or professional member of a fire or rescue department of a political subdivision may use reasonable force to enter a motor vehicle and remove a dog or cat which has been left in the vehicle in violation of subdivision 1.
The law addresses the issue of the unattended pet in a "standing or parked motor vehicle" but also states "a manner that endangers the dog's or cat's health or safety." You mention that the dog is left in a running car, with the air conditioning on and doors locked. I see a few issues:
• Where is owner of the vehicle and when are they coming back?
• How would law enforcement know the air conditioner was on or working when approaching the vehicle?
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• What if the vehicle's engine quits running?
• Some cities with high auto thefts, as well as for noise reasons in residential areas, have ordinances in place so that a vehicle cannot be left unattended, locked up, and idling.
I would advise pet owners use caution and always look out for your pet's well-being and safety.
If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Sgt. Neil Dickenson - Minnesota State Patrol at 1131 Mesaba Ave, Duluth, MN 55811. (You can follow me on Twitter @MSPPIO_NE or reach me at, neil.dickenson@state.mn.us ).
