Have you seen the weather lately? It is going to be HOT! The rise in temperature increases the risks your pets face. We thought we would give you a few tips about summer pet safety that you just might be able to use this weekend.
1. If you are going to take your dog on a walk put your hand on the asphalt/surface for 30 sec. If it is too hot for you then it is definitely too hot for your pup. Their paws can burn and blister.
2. If you do go for a walk, make sure it is in a cooler part of the day and make sure to bring water.
3. Never leave your dog in the car. On an 85-degree day, it can reach 102 F within 10 minutes. And that’s with a window cracked. After 30 minutes, it could be up to 120.
4. Keep plenty of water out for your pet.
5. 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.)
28 states have enacted laws that specifically prohibit leaving pets in hot cars (this includes New York and New Jersey). If you see this, contact the local authorities.
Be mindful of the heat and your pets reaction to it.
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