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Dog owners know the problem in summer or in warm temperatures. You have to go to the shopping centre for a short time, but you were out and about with your dog beforehand. Leaving them in the car is not an option in such temperatures, as the animal is at enormous risk.

Some electric cars now have a dog mode installed for those problems. This is an extension of the standard air conditioning system, which is able to air-condition the vehicle to an appropriate temperature even when it is stationary or not in use. This is possible because the air conditioning systems in electric cars function independently of the engine. With Tesla, for example, the display indicates that the mode is active. This means that outsiders who see the animal in the car don't have to worry.

To underline the risk, the German motoring organisation ADAC carried out a study using a variety of tests to show the very dangerous temperatures that threaten animals. With direct sunlight and an outside temperature of up to 35 degrees, the temperature inside the car can quickly rise to 40 degrees. Parking in the shade makes no difference.  However, if the mode is activated, you can leave your pet in the car for a short time with a clear conscience. It is then possible to keep the temperature stable at around 20 degrees. However, we found that certain areas of the car, such as the boot or rear bench, can be warmer. Here the temperature can be up to 9 degrees above the desired temperature. This varies depending on the amount of sunlight. However, the air vents are always in the same place and are simply not designed for the rear. The optimum location would therefore be the front passenger seat. It is important to note that dog mode can only be activated when the battery level is above 20%. If the percentage drops in the meantime, the mode remains active and the owner is informed via the car's app.

Car manufacturers are increasingly keen to meet the needs of pet owners and are therefore installing this mode in more and more cars. They are also looking at ways to integrate additional sensors that allow even more precise control of the temperature conditions inside the car. Automatic adjustment of the air vents could also help to ensure that the temperature is evenly distributed throughout the car. There are even plans to develop a dog mode for verb engines. However, this will require the air conditioning systems in these vehicles to be adapted to allow autonomous temperature control even when the vehicle is stationary. Car manufacturers are working on improved safety features and much more.

All in all, dog mode is of course a great way to leave your dog in the car for short periods in hot weather. However, it is important to remember that it should only be used in exceptional circumstances and not as a matter of course.

I have to go shopping and I'm going to take the dog with me, even though it's 30 degrees.

That's not what this mode is for. It is for situations where it is unavoidable and an emergency solution is needed. You are not yet at the point where you can be 100% sure, so there is still some risk, which can lead to a clear danger for the animal. Dog Mode does not replace the responsibility of the pet owner and should only be used as a temporary solution in emergencies.

Source: Pixabay/dog-1850465_1280