As this week’s scorcher of a heat wave really gets going, the San Diego Humane Society is asking pet owners to remember their animal companions, too.
“Extreme Heat Warnings and Heat Advisories continue for all but coastal areas for at least a portion of today through Saturday and are in effect for all of those areas on Thursday and Friday,” said the San Diego National Weather Service in a forecast update.
The high temperatures and humidity can be especially harmful for furry creatures – and the sun can burn certain hairless varieties of companion animals – so the San Diego Humane Society has published several tips on how to best care for them during a heat wave.
- Always provide plenty of cool, clean water for your pet.
- Leave your pets at home as much as possible.
- Never leave your pet in a parked vehicle.
- Be mindful of hot asphalt and keep walks to a minimum.
- Avoid exercising your pet in hot, humid weather.
- Remember that dogs can get sunburned too!
- Always provide plenty of shade.
- Keep your pet well groomed.
- Use flea and tick prevention.
- Be alert for the signs of heat stress: heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red tongue. If you believe your pet is suffering from heat exhaustion, contact your veterinarian right away. It can kill quickly.
SDHS advises anyone who sees an animal trapped in a hot car to call them at (619) 299-7012, or to contact local law enforcement.
The county supplies a list of “Cool Zones,” areas with air-conditioning that are free and open to the public. The list, including pet-friendly facilities, can be found here.
