The weather is warming up slowly but surely here in Michigan and everywhere else. Spring is among us and with the blooming flowers comes warmer weather. It is just one step closer to feeling like Summer which everyone is excited about.

With warm weather, dog owners tend to bring their dogs with them to parks, on walks more often and run errands with them. There is one problem however, your dog cannot come with you inside to the store or to other places so you have one choice; leave them in the car. Due to warmer weather leaving your best friend in a car with no air conditioner running or a window cracked open poses risks to their health.

These dogs can suffer from brain damage and can even lead to death if they are left in the car for upwards to 15 minutes. If the temperature is 78 outside, the inside of the car can reach as high as 160 degrees in less than 10 minutes! This is why leaving your dog in the car for "just a short minute" while you are running in the grocery store can post threats to the dog and can cause the death of your best friend.

If you will be leaving your dog in the car then you might as well leave them at home safe so they do not have to worry about why you put them there in that situation of suffering and abandonment. They will be much more comfortable at home than in a hot car nearly dying of a heat stroke.

Now, if you do see a dog that is in a car clearly with high temperatures here are a few suggestions to help ensure the dog's safety and health.

1. If you notice the dog has been inside the car for a few minutes go inside the store of the parking lot or a nearby building and ask to speak to the manager. Ask them to page the owner of the car and to ask them to come immediately.

2. If this does not work or the owner of the vehicle and dog will not cooperate call animal control or the local law enforcement. Let them know of the situation and explain to them any signs or symptoms the dog may be experiencing such as restlessness or panting excessively. Anything that might make them look uncomfortable or like they are pacing in the car may be signs.

3. Witnesses will help and will prevent you from looking like a maniac. Keep an eye on the dog and their condition but make sure you have a witness so that they can also confirm to law enforcement and do not leave the scene until the situation is fully resolved.

In some states, they have bills passed that prevents this type of cruelty. Some are referred as "any animal" and others are more specific however, there are bills that will penalize and even possible jail time if those individuals are found guilty with leaving an animal or pet in a hot car.

Do research about your state and take action. This is the only way to prevent this type of behavior from occurring to an innocent animal.