What to Know: How to care for pets during hot weather

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s Animal Care & Control Division is reminding pet owners that it’s once again the time of year we hear fireworks, firecrackers and thunderstorms and experience hot temperatures.

Be mindful how this affects pets as summer thunderstorms and heat waves roll through the region.

Hot weather can be deadly for your pets. In daily activities or when vacationing with Fido, remember to protect them from the summer heat.

Exercising Pets

• Walk or exercise your pets in the early morning or late evening.
• Monitor them frequently as you are walking, and cut back the level and length of time you are exercising them.
• Be mindful of the humidity, as it also makes it harder for pets to breath.
• Certain breeds are more susceptible to having breathing issues, like brachycephalic dogs, which have short snouts.
• When walking dogs, do not let your dog stand on hot asphalt, pavement or sand. Paw pads are sensitive and will burn easily.

Vehicles and Pets

• Never leave a pet in vehicle, even if you are just running in to the store for a minute.
• Parking in the shade does not help.

Pets Who Live Outside

• In extreme temperatures, bring pets inside.
• Provide plenty of fresh, cold water.
• Provide shade and shelter, such as a doghouse or dog igloo.
• Place a kid pool in a shaded area and fill it with fresh water every day. This will allow the dog to cool itself.

If Your Pet Is Exposed To High Temperatures

• Be alert for signs of heat stress.  Heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue.
• If your pet becomes overheated, you must lower its body temperature immediately.
• Move your pet into the shade and apply cool water, not cold, all over the body to gradually lower temperature.
• Apply ice packs or cool towels to your pet's head, neck and chest.
• Let your pet drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice cubes.
• Take your pet directly to a veterinarian.

WSOC