Keep your pets safe in the summer heat

Pets become an important part of your family, and as the temperatures start to rise, it’s important to remember that our pets feel the heat too! Here are some easy tips to keep animals safe from the heat:

1. Any time your pet is outside, be sure they are protected from heat and sun and that they have access to plenty of fresh, cold water. During heat waves, add ice to water when possible.
   
   
2. Take care when exercising your pet. On very hot and humid days, limit exercise to early morning or evening hours. Always carry water with you to keep your pet hydrated.
   
   
3. Be mindful that surfaces like asphalt can heat up quickly and burn paws. If the temperature is 86 degrees, the asphalt temperature could exceed 135 degrees. To find out if the ground is too hot for your pet to walk on, place your hand on the pavement for 10 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it will be too hot for your pet’s paws.
   
   
4. Don’t leave pets in the car, even with the windows open or even with the car running and air conditioner on. On an 85-degree day, the temperature inside a car with the windows opened slightly can reach 102 degrees within 10 minutes and 120 degrees after 30 minutes.
   
   
5. Be aware of the signs for heat stroke in your pet. These can include heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, seizure and unconsciousness.
   

If your pet is showing any signs of stress from overheating, take steps to cool them down. If there are any concerns about your animals’ health, be sure to talk to your veterinarian.