Extreme Heat: Preparedness and Response Actions for Pets
- Keep animals in the cool indoors. If they must be outside, be sure they have access shade and plenty of water in a tip-proof bowl or container.
- Provide plenty of fresh clean cool water for all animals to drink. Offer it in a shady place as some species may not venture into the sun if it is very hot.
- Hosing off an animal periodically will also help to cool it. *If an animal is over heated, don’t shock their system by trying to cool them down too quickly, do it gradually. If severe overheating occurs, seek veterinarian/medical attention!
- Do not exercise animals when it is especially hot outside (e.g., playing Frisbee, jogging, or riding)! If you have to work with animals, provide regular rest periods. This allows the body’s natural cooling system to work. Animals often are willing to please their owners to the point of endangering themselves.
- Because dogs don’t sweat, dogs must be allowed to pant to dissipate heat. Do not encourage them to carry objects in their mouths if they are hot.
- Do not dress animals with vests, blankets, and other materials that would prevent them from keeping cool.
- Do not ever take animals in the car where they may have to leave alone, even for a second. It could cost them their life.
- Provide caged animals with extra ventilation.
- Remember certain breeds suffer much more quickly from the heat, such as English Bulldogs, Pugs, and many others.
For more information and resources for both humans and animals click here; http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/heat/index.shtml
Updated: September 2, 2022
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