PAWSITIVE TREND: Kamloops locksmith who rescues hot dogs getting fewer calls
A locksmith and animal lover in Kamloops continues to provide free and fast services unlocking vehicles with dogs inside.
Ray Dhaliwal of Ray’s Lock & Key can open a vehicle and rescue an overheated pet within ten minutes and without damage to the vehicle. It’s the fourth summer he’s been on call 24/7 for the public.
While he’s seen some positive trends in the community, a lower numbers of calls for pets in hot cars so far this summer, he said there’s still a need to let the public know to call him before calling the police or SPCA.
“Every minute counts and the police are busy,” he said. “The police are aware we do this and are supportive of us, there’s a provision in the criminal code that allows for this service. There’s still news and comments out there saying to call police first.”
Dhaliwal is able to respond immediately and “get a technician on the way right away” no matter what time of the day or night.
Four years ago he saw a social media post about dogs in hot cars and the public smashing windows to get to them and something inside him was triggered, prompting him to offer his services for free.
Dhaliwal said so far the numbers of calls he’s received this summer are lower than previous years.
"I believe awareness is working and is making a difference in our city," he said. “I hope this kind of program will expand in the province and country wide.”
The most recent call for help came earlier this week from a concerned citizen in the Kamloops Costco parking lot. While Dhaliwal was on his way, the owner of the vehicle returned and the rescue mission was called off. Dhaliwal said he doesn’t mind how many times he’s called to help or how many times he’s cancelled while on route.
When asked if he’s had negative interactions with dog owners returning to their vehicles he’s unlocked, Dhaliwal said “some grumble” but the person is “usually embarrassed.” He’s not had a combative or violent experience yet.
He said some people have electric cars with temperature control that kicks on when it gets too hot inside. He suggests those people can put a sign in the window with their phone number on it for concerned citizens to contact, but no matter what, if the dog is in distress, he’ll respond.
You can call Ray Dhaliwal at 250-320-5625, 24 hours a day, seven days a week if they see a dog locked in a hot car in Kamloops.
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