How hot is it in southwest IL? Hot enough to hurt your pets. Here’s how to keep them safe
Belleville and the greater St. Louis area are under an excessive heat warning, with heat index values forecast to reach a punishing 108 degrees.
Heat waves can be especially hard on animals, particularly cats and dogs.
Here’s what you need to know to keep your pet safe as temperatures rise, and remember, if you see a neglected animal left in a hot car or outdoors with no water or shelter, you can contact the St. Clair County Animal Control Center at 618-235-0585.
Never leave your pet in a vehicle unattended on a warm day
It may go without saying, but pet owners should know temperatures can be 20 degrees warmer in a hot car than on the outside.
Dogs rely primarily on panting to keep cool. Left alone in a hot vehicle, they can get brain damage, heat stroke or die.
“Animals with flat faces, like Pugs and Persian cats, are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively. These pets, along with the elderly, the overweight, and those with heart or lung diseases, should be kept cool in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible,” the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said in its hot weather safety tips.
What are the symptoms of heat stroke in animals?
According to information from the ASPCA, you identify heat stroke in a dog, cat or small animal by watching for the following signs:
Excessive panting
Fainting or dizziness
Increased heart and respiratory rate
Seizures
Vomiting or diarrhea
Stupor
If you notice these symptoms, contact your vet immediately. If a dog is experiencing heat stroke, offer it water, move it to a cool environment, wet the pads of its feet with cold water and make a trip to your veterinarian.
What about small pets like guinea pigs, rabbits and hamsters?
As a general rule, keep them hydrated and don’t put their cage in direct sunlight.
Offer them frozen fruits and vegetables as treats. You can also place a frozen water bottle in their cage for them to lean against to keep cool. You might also consider purchasing a cooling pad for your hamster or guinea pig.
How do I keep my pets cool if the air conditioner is out?
In general, you’ll want to keep your pets hydrated and always make sure they have access to cool water.
If your air conditioner is out, and you’re able to move them to a cooler place like a basement, that can help. Otherwise, try to keep the air circulating. Keep a fan running near them if you can.
Tips for walking your dog in the heat
If you’re taking your dog for a walk on a paved surface, check the temperature first by placing your palm on the pavement and holding it there for 10 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Walk your dog early in the morning or after it cools down in the evening.
If you must walk your dog during the day, look into getting some special paw booties for it.
Overall, keep outdoor activity to a minimum for the sake of you and your dog.