Washington’s Animal Control Officer Beth Trousdale is asking pet owners to be aware of their four legged friends needs as we head into Indiana’s hot summer weather.
Trousdale says “It’s getting to be super hot and we have had an exceptional amount of animal complaints regarding the heat already this summer.”
Some of the things to remember:
Pets can get dehydrated quickly, so give them plenty of fresh, clean water when it’s hot or humid outdoors. Make sure your pets have a shady place to get out of the sun, be careful not to over-exercise them, and keep them indoors when it’s extremely hot.
Never leave your animals alone in a parked vehicle. Not only can it lead to fatal heat stroke, it is illegal in several states!
Animals with flat faces, like Pugs and Persian cats, are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively. These pets, should be kept cool in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible.
Try to keep your dog from drinking pool water, which contains chlorine and other chemicals.
Also, the ASPCA says to feel free to trim longer hair on your dog, but never shave your dog: The layers of dogs’ coats protect them from overheating and sunburn. Brushing cats more often than usual can prevent problems caused by excessive heat.