We are at the peak of summer heat and as temperatures rise, the risk to our pets increases. It's important to walk dogs in the morning hours or evening and keep them off the black asphalt. Most importantly, don't leave pets inside vehicles during the summer! We have all been in a situation where we run quickly into the store with the intention of leaving our pet for 10 minutes and it turns into a half hour. Many pet owners might think it’s okay to leave their dog or cat in the car for a few minutes with the windows down, but this seemingly harmless decision can have fatal consequences. Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a car can skyrocket within minutes. On hot days, the inside of a car can become a scorching 120°F in only about 20 minutes.
Unlike people, dogs and cats can’t sweat to cool themselves down. They rely on panting and releasing heat through their paw pads to regulate their body temperature, but this is not enough in an overheated car. Pets can suffer from heatstroke quickly. Heatstroke can cause symptoms like excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness or death. This is especially true in high elevations--for example while visiting a National Park area.
While many of us want to take our pets with us wherever we go, during the summer months, it's just not safe. The best way to prevent heat-related tragedies is to leave your pets at home in a cool, comfortable environment during hot weather. There are lot of doggie daycare facilities and pet sitters available to keep your pet company while you are gone.
If you ever find yourself in a situation where you see a pet trapped in a hot car, please take action immediately. Contact the store management, call animal control or find a local authority. In many places, it’s legal to break into a car to rescue an animal in distress. Your swift actions can mean the difference between life and death for the animal.
Author: Susan Blake Davis, Pet Nutritionist
Date: 8/11/2024
