Leaving a pet in a hot car is a California misdemeanor and could result in both a fine and a dead animal. “A person shall not leave or confine an animal in any unattended motor vehicle under conditions that endanger the health or wellbeing of an animal due to heat, cold, lack of adequate ventilation, or lack of food or water, or other circumstances that could reasonably be expected to cause suffering.”

California law (Vehicle Penal Code 597.7PC) requires that the citizen witnessing this situation, report the situation with the distressed animal to 911, then the citizen can break the auto window to bring the animal to safety without any legal repercussions.

They must first CALL 911.

Determine that the car is locked or there’s no way to remove the animal apart from forcible entry.

Act in a good faith belief that forcible entry is necessary because the animal is in imminent danger of harm or death.

Use no more force than is necessary to enter the vehicle and remove the animal.

Remain in the area with the rescued animal until an officer arrives. Immediately surrender the animal to any emergency responder or police officer. (Shouse California Law Group)