We urge all pet owners to be mindful of the safety of their animals during hot weather.
70° and Over – Don’t Take Rover!
A Hot Day Can Be Deadly To A Pet Left In A Parked Car
• In just 10 minutes, the temperature inside your car can reach 102 degrees or hotter.
• In just 30 minutes, the temperature inside your car can reach 120 degrees or hotter.
• At 110 degrees, your pet may have just minutes to live! Your pet may suffer heatstroke, leading to collapse, brain damage, and agonizing death!
If Your Pet Is Overheated, Take Emergency Action!
• Place a cool or cold, wet towel around your pet’s neck or pour cool water over your pet’s body, especially the abdomen and between the hind legs.
• Take your pet to a veterinarian for a thorough examination.
If you run or jog with your dog, take frequent water breaks for yourself and your dog: Remember that asphalt and concrete get hot quickly. You have rubber soles on your feet–your dog does not. On hot days, leave your dog at home.
Do not bicycle or rollerblade with a pet: Heat stroke and possible death can occur very quickly, particularly in hot weather.
When the weather is dangerously hot, keep pets inside: If your home is not air-conditioned, be sure to keep your pet in the coolest area of the house. Your basement may be several degrees cooler than the rest of the house and may provide relief from the heat. Always be sure to monitor your pet and the ambient temperature. Rising temperatures inside the home are just as dangerous as the outdoor heat!
Groom regularly: Your pet needs a well-groomed coat to help regulate his body temperature. Long-haired or northern breed dogs may need additional brushing or possibly a grooming during summer months; it’s best to ask your vet or groomer about the best ways to keep your pet’s coat.
If your pet is showing signs of heat exhaustion (excessive panting, vomiting, lethargic behavior), right away begin applying cool water to your pet’s extremities. See your veterinarian immediately!
During the summer, mosquitoes are prevalent. Make sure your pet is tested by a veterinarian for heartworm disease (a mosquito-transmitted, often fatal disease) and begin heartworm prevention medication.
Help us save pets: Download and share our hot weather warning!
