HOT WEATHER SAFETY TIPS
Pets can get dehydrated quickly, so give them plenty of fresh, clean water when it’s hot or humid outdoors. Make sure your pets have a shady place to get out of the sun and be careful not to over-exercise them
Keep them indoors when it’s extremely hot.
Know the symptoms of overheating in pets, which include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, stupor, or even collapse. Symptoms can also include seizures, bloody diarrhea, and vomit along with an elevated body temperature of over 104 degrees.
Animals with flat faces, like Pugs and Persian cats, are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively. These pets, along with the elderly, the overweight, and those with heart or lung diseases, should be kept cool in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible.
Never leave your animals alone in a parked vehicle. Not only can it lead to fatal heat stroke, but it is also illegal in several states! The temperature inside your care may be as much as 20 degrees hotter than the temperature outside. 60 degrees in Washington is too hot. Just imagine what 110 degrees in Washington is like in your car!
When the temperature is very high, don’t let your dog linger on hot asphalt. Being so close to the ground, your pooch’s body can heat up quickly, and sensitive paw pads can burn. Keep walks during these times to a minimum. Protect their paws if needed. Walk in the grass during the hottest part of the day!
If you see stray pets or dogs locked in cars, don’t hesitate to call 911 for Animal Control assistance.
