While you are trying to keep cool this summer, the Forsyth County (North Carolina) Department of Animal Control asks you to put yourself in your pet’s “paws” after all they are wearing fur coats! Each summer, the department, and others like it across the U. S., receive hundreds of complaints concerning dogs left unattended in hot cars or left outdoors in extreme heat. Since cats and dogs have no sweat glands, even a short time in a hot environment is life threatening.

Temperatures inside a parked car can easily reach over 105º F on a relatively mild day, even when parked in the shade. If you see an animal that is not being properly cared for, you should call your local animal control agency.

Signs that an animal is suffering from heat stroke include:

• excessive panting and salivation
• glassy staring
• high pulse rate
• dizziness
• vomiting

If an animal is suffering from heat stroke, they require immediate veterinary attention. Immediate first aid action may include applying ice packs or cold towels to the head, neck and chest.

TIPS TO KEEP YOUR PETS SAFE THIS SUMMER

• Never leave your pet in a parked car, even if the windows are open. Even on a moderately warm day, the temperature in the car can climb to fatally high levels in a matter of minutes. Dogs and cats do not perspire; they are left “panting” for air that is so hot it brings them no relief.

• Never leave your pet without proper food, water or shelter. Think hard about your pet’s access to these three necessities, during both your presence and your absence. Remember that all your pet is wearing is a fur coat and they can suffer from the effects of heat stroke very quickly.

• Do not walk or exercise your animal in the afternoon heat. We advise dogs and other animals be walked or exercised in the early morning or later in the evening. The heat will cause premature exhaustion and the hot pavement can damage the soft padding on dog’s paws.