Please take every precaution available to keep your pets cool as temperatures often soar in Wisconsin in the summer. Here are a few tips from the Wisconsin Humane Society to keep your pets safe in the extreme heat.
- Never leave an animal alone in a vehicle, because overheating can kill him. The inside of a vehicle can reach 160 degrees in mere minutes, even with the windows cracked.
- Take walks in early morning or after sunset. On especially hot days, any outdoor exercise should be brief and in the cooler hours.
- Test the pavement with your palm. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws.
- Never leave an animal out in the sun. Always ensure they have access to shade and plenty of fresh water.
- Regulate the temperature inside your home. Use AC, fans, or give access to cooler areas like a basement or darker room with tile floors.
- Take extra precautions for old, overweight or snub-nosed dogs in hot weather. Boston terriers, Pekingese, Pugs, Lhasa Apsos, Shih Tzus and Bulldogs are especially vulnerable. Dogs with heart or lung diseases should be closely monitored.
- Watch for signs of heat stroke. These include panting, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, rapid pulse, bright red gums, and blue tongue or lips.
- Treat heat stroke immediately. Move them to a cool place and lower their body temperature with cold water, then contact your veterinarian.
