Hot Days Can Mean Trouble for Pets

With temperatures rising in Port Washington and Saukville this week, pet owners should be aware of the effects the heat can have on their furry friends.

According to Angela Speed, director of development at the Wisconsin Humane Society, pets are just as prone to heat stroke and exhaustion as humans, however they lack the ability to regulate their body temperatures effectively.  

In order to keep pets safe in the hot weather, the WHS advises owners to keep pets out of the heat as much as possible.  Dogs and cats should be allowed in cool parts of the home.  If animals must be outside, it should only be for short times with access to shady areas and lots of cool water.  

Speed also warns individuals to not leave animals in a car during a warm day.  With the windows down, a car’s temperature can climb to 160 degrees in just a matter of minutes.

Even with precautions like these, the WHS urges pet owners to keep an eye out for any signs of heat stroke, like excessive panting, rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, confusion, bright red gums and a blue tongue.  These animals should be moved to a cool place where their temperatures can be brought down with cool water.  WHS also recommends that veterinary attention should also be given.