Protect your pet from summer heat; PETA safety tips

SOUTHERN UTAH – Every summer, PETA receives numerous reports of animals who suffer horrifying illness and death due to heat exposure.

During hot weather, pets left in a car can quickly succumb to heatstroke and sustain brain damage as a result. On a 90 degree day, the interior temperature of a vehicle can reach as high as 160 degrees in less than 10 minutes.

If you see an animal showing any symptoms of heatstroke, including restlessness, heavy panting, vomiting, lethargy and lack of appetite or coordination, get the animal into the shade. You can lower a distressed animal’s body temperature by providing water to drink, applying a cold towel to the head and chest or immersing the pet in tepid (not cold) water. Then immediately call a veterinarian.

PETA offers the following suggestions for keeping animals safe during the summer:

  • Keep pets inside; even outdoor shade is not enough in the heat of the day. Unlike humans, most animals can only sweat through the pads of their feet and cool themselves by panting. Exposure to high summer temperatures can cause serious illnesses like heatstroke and even death.
  • If animals must be left outside, they should be supplied with ample water and shade; the shifting sun needs to be taken into account. Even brief periods of direct exposure to the sun can have life-threatening consequences.
  • In very hot weather, never exercise animals by cycling or jogging with them in tow. Walks should be taken in the early morning or late evening. Take along plenty of water for your pet to drink.
  • Never leave an animal in a parked car in warm weather, even for short periods with the windows slightly open. Dogs trapped inside parked cars can succumb to heatstroke within minutes, even if the car isn’t parked in direct sunlight.
  • Never transport animals in the bed of a pickup truck. This practice is dangerous — and illegal in many cities and states — because animals can be injured or killed if they jump or fall out. Also, they will be exposed to direct sunlight and outdoor temperatures.
  • Keep an eye on all outdoor animals. Make sure that they have adequate water and shelter. If you see an animal in distress, provide water for immediate relief and then contact the authorities right away.·Staying alert can save a life.

Resources

PETA public service announcement on summer pet safety

Humane Society of Utah: Protect Pets in Summer Heat

Submitted by: PETA

Email: [email protected]

Twitter: @STGnews

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1 Comment

  • Fred July 1, 2013 at 1:10 pm

    What about the horses I see around town out in the heat with no shelter and many times it looks like no water? I always see 3 horses behind Furniture Row on Sunland Drive standing all day with no shade and I see no water. THIS IS NOT RIGHT.

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