By Bill Fortune
When temperatures soar, the hotter weather can pose a danger to family pets. The American Red Cross has steps to take to ensure your pet stays safe this summer:
HOT CARS DEADLY FOR PETS Pet owners should not leave their animal in the car – even for a few minutes – when the hot weather arrives. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees. Pet owners are urged to refrain from leaving animals in the car, even with the windows cracked open.
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| Red Cross Pet First Aid App will help you recognize when pet behavior is normal and when to be concerned |
ANIMALS CAN SUFFER HEAT STROKE Heat stroke is a common problem for pets in the warmer weather. Dogs with short noses or snouts, like the boxer or bulldog, are prone to heat stroke. This is also true for any obese pet, a pet with an extremely thick fur coat or any pet with upper respiratory problems such as laryngeal paralysis or collapsing trachea. Some of the signs of heat stroke in your pet are:
- Heavy panting and unable to calm down, even when lying down.
- Brick red gum color
- Fast pulse rate
- Unable to get up.
If you suspect your pet has heat stroke, take their temperature rectally. If the temperature is above 105 degrees, cool the animal down. The easiest way to do this is by using the water hose. Stop cooling the animal when the temperature reaches 103 degrees. Bring your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible as heat stroke can lead to severe organ dysfunction and damage.
Down load the Pet First Aid app and you can have pet care tips at your fingertips whenever you need them. The app is available from your preferred app provider or at redcross.org/apps. To learn more about pet safety you will find more information on our website, redcross.org/prepare.