WEST SENECA, N.Y. (WIVB) — As temperatures climb during the summer months, the SPCA Serving Erie County is reminding pet owners to be mindful of their animals’ safety in the heat.
“Just keeping them at home in the air conditioning it’s the best way to go,” said Bethany Kloc, the SPCA’s communications manager. “If it’s hot outside for you, imagine wearing a fur coat. It’s doubly hard for them.”
If pets do need to go outside, Kloc recommends walking them in the early morning or evening when it’s cooler. It’s also important to test the pavement before heading out.
“Take the back of your hand and put it against the pavement,” Kloc said. “If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s way too hot for their little paw pads.”
Flat-faced breeds such as bulldogs, pugs and Persian cats are especially vulnerable in the heat. These animals can’t pant as effectively, making it harder for them to regulate their body temperature.
Excessive panting, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea or even seizures could be signs of heatstroke. If any of these symptoms occur, pet owners should seek immediate veterinary care, whether at a regular office or an emergency clinic.
“You know your animal better than anyone else,” Kloc said. “When they start to show signs of overheating, that’s when you say, ‘It’s okay, stay home on the couch.’”
And if you are to see an animal inside a car on a hot day, it’s important you don’t break the window. Instead follow these tips.
“You’re going to want to call 911, and then you’re going to want to take down the license plate and the make model of the car. Then you can want to go into the store, ask somebody to page saying, ‘Hey, there’s an animal in the car.’ You do not want to break the windows of the car because that’s illegal in New York State,” Kloc said.
The SPCA encourages all pet owners to stay alert, provide plenty of fresh water, and avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day to keep animals safe and healthy all summer long.
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