Leaving Dog in the Truck in Summer - remote starter?

I am a landlord and I have my dog with me most days - usually stays in the truck when I run errands or do maintenance. German Shepherd who sleeps there mostly. I have been driving a 99 Ford F250 and had two sets of keys so in the summer I just locked him in with the motor running and the AC on and all was good.

Just figured out that that I can't lock the doors to my 2013 Tundra with the motor running. Not good. Can't do it with the door switch or the remote. Have started to investigate remote starters as that looks like an option but so far haven't found one that doesn't shut the truck off after an hour. Typically wouldn't be away that long but it could happen.

Any suggestions on options or how best to handle this situation?

Thanks!

Ted

 

I bought mine off eBay from a company in New York. I had problems w the first unit he sent me. While talking to him for a replacement he mentioned he could program the remote starter for different functions. He could possibly turn off the auto shut off function. Good luck!

 

Have you tried using your 2nd key to manually lock the door once you get out and close it with the truck running?


It won't let you lock the door with the door open, or even use the keyfob clicker when the truck is on, but I'm thinking you should be able to insert the key in the door and manually lock it like that.

 

I have a Scytek that is programmable. The installer set mine to 15 minutes but it can be set wherever you want.

 

It is illegal in alot of states to leave your pet inside the vehicle AC or not, but yes a second key will let you lock your doors manually.

 

this, I know this is not an answer to your question, but if I were to install a remote starting system which over rides the truck safety system, I would also look into alarm systems which remotely tell you the engine or AC has quit running. The more sophisticated police departments use these systems for their K9 partners now. Google police K9 deaths due to AC failure

 

So far all of the remote state systems I have investigated are adjustable as to how long the vehicle will run after the start, but all have been limited to 1 hour run time - safety feature to mitigate the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Haven't met anyone who knows how to override that.

However, ToyotaTundra Mike had the winning idea. Not sure why I didn't think to try the key! That will be my solution.

NewImprovedRon - I totally get your concern. He is never in there for that long and he is well loved and cared for. Even with the AC on I leave the window cracked - just run the AC to keep him comfortable . He's my bud.

 

Mtntop- good idea! Thanks!

 

Don’t forget your sign

 

Here's your sign has negative connotations.


lol

I also have dogs I'd never leave in the truck/car for anything over a few minutes but figured I'd keep it to myself as that was not the question.

 

I wouldn't do that. If he/she is that much of a companion, they either come with me all the time, or they stay at home.

Not saying you're a bad dog father, but you'll run into 7-11 for a coffee and come out to 15 dog mom's surrounding your truck and a cop with an asp out smashing in your drivers side window, then charging you with misdemeanor animal cruelty, all while being filmed to IG or FB, then being run on the local news.

And you're dog will probably get taken away. Not worth it to me.

This day and age, I keep my dogs with me all the time. If they can't go with me, then I have no need to go there.

 

Just to add another voice, please rethink leaving your buddy in the truck. Wife is a vet tech and has seen too many good folks with the best intentions who've taken the best precautions lose their best friends.

Also, be aware in many locals the cops are legally able to break your window and take the dog. You may or may not face criminal charges, and may or may not get your pup back. All it takes is one concerned passerby to call them...

Food for thought.

 

Most aftermarket RS systems have a 'pit stop' feature which allows you to keep the vehicle running, remove the key, and lock the doors. I can't remember the exact window, but I believe it's 20 minutes. Any Viper RS will for sure have this feature.