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Protect pets from the heat this summer

By Carol Pezzula, Humane Society of Rome

Summer is upon us and we all enjoy spending time outside on the hot sunny days.

As enjoyable as the nice weather can be for us and our pets, it can also be dangerous especially to our pets. It’s important to keep a close eye on your pets while out in the heat.

Pets can get dehydrated quickly. It’s important to have clean, fresh water available for your pet at all times when it’s hot or humid outdoors. Make sure they have a shady spot where they can get out of the sun. Limit exercise and keep them indoors when it’s extremely hot.

Watch for signs of heatstroke. Signs of heatstroke include extreme panting, salivating, staggering, vomiting and diarrhea. Dogs and cats with flat faces are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively. If your pet is experiencing heat stroke, call your veterinarian immediately.

Never leave your pet in a parked car. Every year dogs die after being left in a parked car. In the shade with windows down isn’t enough to keep your dog cool. In just 10 minutes the temperature in your vehicle can rise 10 degrees. On a 70-degree day the internal temperature of a vehicle can rise to 99 degrees after just 20 minutes. So if you’re going out to run errands, leave your dog home where they are safe.

When taking your dog out for a walk remember that concrete, metal, pavement, sidewalks and asphalt can get hot and cause damage to your dog’s paws. Walk your dog in the grass and avoid pavement as much as possible.

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