Link: Dog In A Hot Car: Would You Break In?

"...It's important to recognize that the legal authority to enter a vehicle in order to save an animal from a dangerous situation, and the protection from prosecution that such laws afford, is typically only applicable to the police, the fire department, and other official first responders. No law will likely ever extend such legal authority to an ordinary citizen - no matter how impassioned or well-intentioned they are."

Dr. Hehn's Take

As an animal lover and veterinarian, I would find it hard not to break in and save an animal in distress. I think by following these important points if you encounter a pet in a car, you will do the right thing in helping a pet that needs it while helping to protect yourself from a lawsuit. Always call for help and document the incident, and if possible, have others involved to vouch for you. Unfortunately, too many pets die in hot cars, and those of us that love animals cannot simply walk away from a situation such as this. What seems to be common sense to most of us, simply isn't to many people. This means that it is our duty as professionals in the veterinary community to continue to reach out and inform owners about the dangers of heat stroke and leaving pets in cars. Client handouts in the exam rooms and posts on social media about these issues may save a life!

Read the full Article from preventivevet.com