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Friday, 14 May 2010 |
We all love our pets and want to take them with us on trips BUT during the summer months this could be deadly. Common sense tells most people that leaving their pet inside a parked vehicle on a hot summer day could be dangerous after an extended period of time. For more tips click 'Read More' below.
For more information contact:
Cyndi Hoffman
City of Newnan Animal Warden
770-254-2355
OUR PETS AND THE SUMMER HEAT
We all love our pets and want to take them with us on trips BUT during the summer months this could be deadly. Common sense tells most people that leaving their pet inside a parked vehicle on a hot summer day could be dangerous after an extended period of time. But most people do not realize that the temperature can get dangerously high after just a few minutes.
On a day that is 85 degree Fahrenheit, the temperature inside a car with the windows slightly opened, the interior of the car can reach 102 degrees within 10 minutes – after 30 minutes it can reach 120 degrees. On hot and humid days, the temperature in a car parked in direct sunlight can rise more than 30 degrees per minute and quickly become lethal.
At 110 degrees, pets are in danger of heatstroke. Tip: Put ice in the water dish on hot days Pets are susceptible to overheating. While we can roll down the windows, turn on the air conditioner or simply get out of the car, your pet cannot.
It is important to be able to identify the symptoms of heat stress caused by exposure to extreme tempetures. Check the animal for signs of heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, restlessness, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue and unconsciousness. The veterinarians in town are already seeing cases of animals being over exposed to the heat. If your animal shows symptoms of heatstroke, take steps to gradually lower the body temperature
immediately. Follow these tips and it could save their life:
- Move animal into the shade of air-conditioned area.
- Apply ice packs or cold towels to the head, neck and chest or immerse in cool (not cold) water
- Let them drink small amounts of cool water or lick on ice cubes
- Take pet immediately to the veterinarian.
So please, do not take your animal with you on a quick trip to the store and if you have an animal that is outdoors, please make sure he or she has shelter, shade and fresh water at all times. For emergencies please call 770-254-2355.
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Last Updated ( Tuesday, 07 December 2010 )
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