16/06/2023
Summer is here and temperatures are getting warmer over the next few days so Animal Services wants to remind that it is important to take care of our pets and protects them during the hot summer months.
Pet Summer Heat Safety Tips:
1. Provide plenty of water and shade
If possible, keep your pets indoors, especially during peak hours. Make sure your pet always has access to fresh, clean water.
When outdoors, keep your pet in the shade as often as possible.
2. Mind your walking hours
If you have a dog, walk and exercise your furry friend in the early morning and late evening. Never do it in the middle of the day.
3. Never leave your pet in the car
Leaving a pet in a car without adequate ventilation is considered animal cruelty. The inside of a car can quickly reach 120 degrees! If you see a pet alone in a vehicle without adequate ventilation, call 911 immediately.
4. Keep pets off the Hot Concrete and protect your dog's paws
Ever try walking barefoot on asphalt? Ouch!
Asphalt gets scorching hot. Keep your pet off hot surfaces like cement and asphalt. Not only can it burn paws, but it can also increase body temperature and lead to overheating.
When spraying your dog with water, make sure to spray the paws and stomach to cool them down quicker. If you are using a wet towel, rub their paws and stomach.
If you can't walk your dog during the early and later hours of the day, doggy boots are a good way to protect their paws.
5. Heatstroke - Know the signs
A dog's normal temperature is between 100° and 103°F, while a normal temperature in cats ranges from 100.4º to 102.5ºF. Anything higher than that means your pet’s in danger.
Watch for these possible symptoms of overheating:
• Heavy panting
• Dry or bright red gums
• Thick drool
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Wobbly legs - lethargy
If your pet shows signs of heat exhaustion, move them to a cool place, give them a drink of water, put a damp towel over their body, and get them to the vet asap. Don’t place your pet in cold water, that can put them into shock.
Infographic: Doctor Multimedia