Below are seven things to know about your pets and the heat:
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For more information:
www.aspca.org/pet-care/hot-weather-tips
Suffolk SPCA: https://suffolkspca.org
Nassau SPCA: http://www.nassaucountyspca.org
Pets and the heat - 7 Things to know
NEW YORK Know the warning signs of heat stroke. Watch out for the following symptoms of overheating: excessive panting or difficulty breathing, drooling, mild weakness, stupor, seizures, bloody diarrhea and vomiting. If you suspect your pet is suffering from heat stroke please contact your veterinarian immediately.
Avoid dehydration by always having fresh, clean water available and lots of shady places where pets can cool off.
Do not leave pets unsupervised around a pool-not all dogs are good swimmers. Introduce your pets to water gradually and make sure they wear flotation devices when on boats. Rinse your dog off after swimming to remove chlorine or salt from his fur, and try to keep your dog from drinking pool water, which contains chlorine and other chemicals that could cause stomach upset.
Limit exercise to either early in the morning or late in the evening. Before starting your walk, feel the sidewalk. If it's too hot to touch, it can burn your pet's pads and should be avoided.
Bring outdoor pets inside, and give them access to air-conditioned areas of your home. For animals who must remain outside, provide a shady, sheltered place to rest and lots of fresh water in stable containers.
Never leave an animal alone in a parked vehicle. On a hot day, a parked car can become a furnace in no time - even with the windows open - leading to fatal heat stroke within minutes.
If you see a pet in a vehicle on a hot day, take immediate action. Note the car make, model, color and plate number, then go to the nearest stores and ask the managers to page the owner. Call the police if necessary.
