As temperatures rise in the summer, Janice Emerson with the Fairfield County Animal Shelter reminds people to keep an eye on their furry friends.
She said they have seen an increase in the number of kittens dropped off at the shelter this summer and that they recently had seven Australian shepherd puppies arrive at the facility.
“Do not leave your pets outside and definitely do not leave them in a car,” she said.
Car temperatures can rise to over 120 degrees with just minutes of exposure.
That kind of overheating could cause a pet to become sick, injured or even die, said Emerson.
If a pet becomes overheated, take a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol and rub the pads of the animal’s feet. Dogs and cats absorb a great deal of heat through their feet, so this can help bring their core temperature down.
Emerson said to give pets plenty of cold water and to be sure and change the water frequently if pets are outdoor pets.
“Be sure they have access to shade, and if you can, put a fan on the pet to get some air moving at least,” she recommended.
The Pawmetto Lifeline, formerly known as Project Pet, posted recommendations on its blog that provided more beat the heat tips for pet owners.
Among their suggestions were giving pets extra water and ice chips, feeding them frozen dog treats, and having a baby pool of water available where pets can cool off.
The Lifeline urged owners to be wary of hot pavement when taking pets for walks because the extreme heat could damage the pads on their feet. They advised limiting outdoor exercise for pets during the hot summer months.
The pet’s veterinarian should be contacted immediately if excessive panting, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, salivating or tremors are noted.
Those symptoms can be indicative of heat exhaustion and be a serious situation for your pet’s health.
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