Patrols will watch for pets in hot cars

With temperatures expected to heat up this weekend, Spokane Regional Animal Protection Services (SCRAPS) will be conducting an emphasis patrol looking for pets left in hot vehicles. Anyone leaving their pet in a vehicle during warm weather may be charged and fined with unsafe confinement, a misdemeanor. Pet owners could also be charged with animal cruelty, a felony, depending on the severity of the case. Warnings will not be given, but citations for violations will, said Nancy Hill, SCRAPS director. Anyone who sees an animal left in a car should call SCRAPS at (509) 477-2533 or SpokAnimal at (509) 534-8133 immediately.