Help! I Think My Niece Isn’t Caring for Her Dogs Properly! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“Hello Dr. Paola,
My niece is temporarily living with me and keeps her 3 dogs in her car outside with the AC on, like that is good for them. I don’t think that is good for them. She says she loves them, so it’s ok. I think love is caring for them properly. What can I tell her so that she will know that she’s not loving them and needs to let someone else care for them until she can take care of herself? “ – James
Hi James,
You are absolutely right to be concerned. Keeping dogs in a car, even with the air conditioning running, is not a safe or healthy living situation. Cars are confined spaces that do not provide the enrichment, exercise, or mental stimulation that dogs need, and there is also a serious risk that the air conditioning could fail. Studies and veterinary guidelines are very clear that even a few minutes in a vehicle without proper ventilation can become dangerous. Beyond temperature, living in a car means the dogs lack space to move freely, opportunities to interact with their environment, and the stability of a secure, clean, and predictable home.
What you can gently tell your niece is that real love for animals means meeting their physical and emotional needs, not just keeping them nearby. Dogs depend on us for everything, and part of caring for them is ensuring they have a safe environment, regular exercise, social interaction, and proper rest. Let her know that choosing temporary foster care, a trusted friend, or a reputable shelter until she can provide for them again does not mean she loves them less. In fact, making that decision would be one of the most loving and responsible things she could do for them, because it puts their well-being first. Thanks for reaching out, and I hope you can help those dogs.
Sincerely,
– Dr. Paola