Q: How many lawyers does it take to save a dog's life?

A: In this case, two, but they didn't need to use their law degrees to do it.

PETA attorneys Jeff Kerr and Jared Goodman (who work for animals' legal rights every day) were on their way to talk about our landmark lawsuit in behalf of captive orcas when they spotted a dog trapped inside a car parked in the sun. The windows were barely cracked, and although she had a water bowl, it was empty, and she was panting heavily. There was no time to lose.

After having no luck searching for the owner, our legal eagles called the police, but that was taking too long, so they reached through a window and managed to unlock the door. The relieved pup flew out and quickly gulped down a bowl of water.

When the dog's guardians finally returned, Jeff and Jared were waiting to explain that even on a mild day, dogs inside parked cars can sustain heatstroke or even brain damage in just minutes. They thanked our caring counsel for likely saving their dog's life.

Never pass by a dog who has been left in a hot car. If you can't locate the owner, call the police. If they are slow to arrive and the dog's life appears to be in danger, try to find a witness who will back up your assessment and get the suffering animal out via the least destructive means available.

Watch for heatstroke symptoms such as restlessness, excessive thirst, heavy panting, lethargy, lack of appetite, dark tongue, rapid heartbeat, fever, vomiting, or lack of coordination. If a dog shows any of these symptoms, get him or her into the shade immediately and call a veterinarian. Lower the animal's body temperature gradually by giving water to drink; applying a cold towel or ice pack to the head, neck, and chest; or immersing the dog in lukewarm (not cold) water.

You don't have to be a lawyer to leap to an animal's defense.