Community Corner
Heatwave: Keep Pets Safe During Dog Days of Summer
Leaving pets inside a car when it's hot outside can be deadly. The Humane Society of the United States offers tips for keeping pets cool during the heatwave.
As temperatures rise, it gets pretty uncomfortable for humans, luckily wearing light clothing and staying indoors can help minimize discomfort. Pets who regularly wear a fur coat, also need attention in hot weather.
The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) emphasizes that pets should never be left in parked vehicles on hot days. The temperature inside a car can rise to 120 degrees within a matter of minutes. Pets can suffer irreversible organ damage and death.
Whenever pets are outside they require shade and cool water. Protection from the heat is a must, according to the Humane Society. A dog house does not provide relief from the heat.
The Humane Society recommends limiting exercise on very hot days to early morning or evening hours. Owners should be particularly careful with pets with white-colored ears, that are more susceptible to skin cancer, and short-nosed pets that may have difficulty breathing.
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Walking dogs on grass is also suggested, since asphalt can become very hot and can burn a dog’s paws.
Know the signs of heat stroke in your pet:
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Heavy panting
Glazed eyes
A rapid heartbeat
Restlessness
Excessive thirst
Lethargy
Fever
Dizziness, lack of coordination
Profuse salivation
Vomiting
A deep red or purple tongue
Unconsciousness
In cases of heat stroke:
Move the animal into the shade or an air-conditioned area.
Apply ice packs or cold towels to her head, neck and chest or run cool (not cold) water over the pet.
Let your pet drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice cubes.
Take your pet directly to a veterinarian.
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