A few simple precautions can help your pet beat the heat
Sacramento, Calif. - As the weather starts to warm up, the County Animal Shelter is reminding pet owners of the importance of taking certain precautions to make sure their animals stay safe and cool during the hot Sacramento summer months.
“Pets are completely dependent on their owners to take care of them, and it is important that people stay alert to their pet’s health and well being,” said Carl Simpson, Interim Animal Shelter Director. “One of the more common instances we see of endangering pet’s health is dogs left in cars in hot weather. All it takes is a few minutes for a dog to succumb to heat stroke.”
Below are some tips on how you can help your pet get ready for summer:
Never leave your dog in a parked car: Even cracking a window won’t protect your pets. It is against the law in California and could be punishable by a fine.
Avoid extreme heat: When temperatures get above the 90s, take your pet inside. For outdoor pets, be sure to provide them with plenty of fresh, cold water in a tip‐proof water dish and shade for them to cool down.
Don’t exercise with your pets when it is too hot: Older and certain long‐haired dogs can be particularly susceptible to heat, and hot asphalt can burn their paws. Exercise in the early morning or evenings and make sure both of you have plenty of water. It will be easier on both of you.
Use sunscreen: Pets get sunburned just like people, and if your pet has light skin, they can be particularly susceptible to a painful burn. Use sunscreen on sensitive areas, such as ears or nose to make sure your pets are protected.
Don’t take your pets to crowded summer events: The heat, noise, and crowds can be overwhelming to your pet. It is best to leave them at home in a quiet, cool environment.
Secure your dog during transport: Make sure your dog is secured safely in your vehicle or tethered by a rope or chain in the bed of your tuck to prevent the dog from falling or jumping from the vehicle. Transporting animals without properly securing the animal an a public highway or public roadway (exceptions for working dogs within agricultural or rural areas) is against the law in California and could be punishable by a fine.
Be your pet’s lifeguard: While swimming can help some of your pets get exercise without overheating, always supervise your pets when swimming either in a pool or in area waterways. A dog could get tired swimming, particularly if it is in the river and must fight against currents.
If your pet has been exposed to high temperatures…
Be alert for signs of heat stress including heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue.
Move your pet immediately to the shade to help lower their temperature immediately. Apply cool (not cold) water to the pet, apply ice packs and cool towels to your pet’s head, neck, and chest.
Take your pet to a veterinarian immediately. It could save its life.
If you should see animals in danger and potential neglect or abuse cases, please contact the Animal Shelter to report the issue at 916-368-PETS (7387).
Information gathered from the Dumb Friends League, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the Sacramento Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and the Sacramento County Animal Care and Regulation.
Annie Parker