If you don’t see the dog’s guardian close by, call your local animal control or non-emergency police number. Report that there is a pet in a car and be sure to tell them if the pet appears to be in any distress. Endangering a dog by leaving her in a car is against the law in many places. (Photo credit: Thinkstock)

Note the license plate number, color, make and model of the car. Go to the nearest store or mall security office and ask them to make an announcement over the loudspeaker that a dog has been left in a car and needs help. Often this will be enough to make the guardian attend to his pet. (Photo credit: Thinkstock)

Keep an eye on the car until the guardian or animal control arrive. If the pet begins to display any signs of heatstroke, call back to animal control and report that the pet is now in distress. (Photo credit: Thinkstock)

Sometimes people don’t know any better. Consider printing out copies of our Never Leave a Dog in a Car infographic in advance, so that you’ll be prepared to leave one with the guardian to help him or her learn.

Click the image above to see the infographic at full size and get the code to easily embed it on your own blog or website. Comment below to let us know how you’ll use it to protect pets.

Have you ever helped a pet left in a car? Leave a comment below, then click the image above to explore more Summer Pet Safety galleries and articles!