As a dog owner and ardent dog lover living in Peoria, AZ, I have experienced firsthand, and with great alarm, the critical dangers that extreme heat can pose to our faithful companions. Many dog owners would never intentionally put their pets in harm's way. However, the stark reality is that the intense Arizona sun, particularly when temperatures climb above 90 degrees, can be lethal for dogs left outside for extended periods of time.

This petition seeks to establish a law that makes it unlawful for dogs to be left outdoors, unattended, for more than two hours when the temperature surpasses 90 degrees.

It is a well-established fact that dogs, unlike humans, have only a limited ability to sweat and thus cool their bodies. The American Veterinary Medical Association warns that high temperatures can cause irreparable organ damage and even death. Many of us are conscious of this, yet hundreds of dogs each year become seriously ill or succumb to the heat.

The proposed law is not about punishment, but prevention. It's about educating the public about the fatal risks excessive heat can pose and ensuring that the welfare of our pets is preserved.

Our pets rely on us to protect them and that includes from unfit weather conditions. Every dog deserves to be safe, healthy, and happy. Help give them that chance, Arizona. Stand up for this law. For the well-being of our beloved dogs, sign this petition today.