TODAY: Raise awareness about summer safety for dogs

You may think it’s a no-brainer not to leave your dog – or any other pet for that matter – in a hot car with the windows closed/cracked open in the hot summer sun, but unfortunately there are still many dogs that die each summer season from heat stroke as a result of just that

Image courtesy of Gualberto 107/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

You may think it’s a no-brainer not to leave your dog – or any other pet for that matter – in a hot car with the windows closed/cracked open in the hot summer sun, but unfortunately there are still many dogs that die each summer season from heat stroke as a result of just that action by the people they live with. Furthermore, the car doesn’t have to be parked in the hot sun to be a danger to someone left inside. According to the BCSPCA,  “The temperature in a parked car, even in the shade with the windows partly open, can rapidly reach a level that will seriously harm or even kill your pet. Leaving you pet in a car with the air conditioning on is also taking a risk as many pets have died as the result of a faulty air-conditioning system.”

Dogs and cats cool themselves by panting and by releasing heat through their paws. On summer days the air and upholstery in a vehicle can heat up to high temperatures that make it impossible for pets to cool themselves.

If you see a pet locked in a hot vehicle, here are some recommended steps to take from the Austin Humane Society:

Step 1: Try to Locate the Pet Parent

 Ask around or have the store you’re at call for the pet parents over the loud speaker.

Step 2: Educate

 If you find the pet parents, explain the dangers of leaving a pet in a hot car. Make sure the pet gets out of the car as soon as possible.

Step 3: Call 911 (or your local Humane Society)

Don’t hesitate to take action…Being locked in a car can cause overheating, organ failure and death — so act to save their lives!

And some tips to cool down an overheating dog:

• Put rubbing alcohol on the pads of their feet – it’s one of the quickest ways to cool them down
• Get cold water across and inside the mouth as quickly as possible
• Put a fan on them
• Rub them down with wet clothes
• Douse them with cold water

You can get the whole story here.


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