Heat waves sweeping across western Pennsylvania can make summer uncomfortable for Indiana residents. With National Weather Service forecasters predicting heat index values between 100 and 104 degrees across west-central Pennsylvania, combined with high humidity, air conditioning becomes essential. However, these high temperatures pose significant health risks for pets.
Jen Visnesky, a vet technician at Indian Springs Veterinary Clinic, offers crucial advice on keeping pets safe during sweltering conditions. One primary concern is exercising pets on hot surfaces. Walking pets on hot concrete and asphalt can result in painful paw burns.
“You don’t want them out on that hot asphalt,” Visnesky advises. “If the pavement can burn the back of your hand, it’s going to burn their paw pads. When it’s 77 degrees and sunny, asphalt temperatures can reach 120 to 125 degrees, causing burns within a minute.”
Visnesky recommends walking pets in the early morning or late evening to avoid this risk. Playing on grass can also help, but even in the shade, prolonged outdoor activity can lead to heat stroke and dehydration. According to The Kennel Club, exercise is the leading cause of heatstroke in dogs.
“Overheating can lead to heat stroke,” Visnesky explains. “It’s best to keep pets in the shade or indoors during extreme heat. We often see pets collapsing from heat exhaustion.”
Pets like dogs, which pant rather than sweat, are particularly vulnerable. To keep them hydrated, Visnesky emphasizes using tepid water rather than ice-cold water, which can shock their system.
“If your pet is overheating, give them tepid water — not ice water,” she says. “Ice water can cause shock and do more harm than good.”
For pets staying outside, limit their exposure to about 30 minutes, ensuring they have plenty of water and shade. “With temperatures in the upper 80s and 90s, it’s best to keep pets indoors if possible,” Visnesky advises.
Without outdoor access, pets may become bored. Visnesky suggests indoor play and enrichment toys to keep them stimulated.
For pet owners without air conditioning, Visnesky recommends using fans, providing constant access to water, and keeping pets on lower floors where it’s cooler. “Keep pets in the coolest room and ensure they have access to water at all times,” she says.
Visnesky also cautions against allowing pets to drink from saltwater pools, which can cause salt toxicity. One of the most dangerous mistakes pet owners can make is leaving pets in cars, even with windows cracked.
“Car temperatures can rise quickly and become deadly,” Visnesky warns. “Even with windows down, temperatures can reach double what they are outside. It’s like baking your pet.”
Leaving pets in cars for even five minutes can result in serious risks like heat stroke, dehydration, or death. Visnesky stresses that pets should not be left in cars if the temperature is above 60 to 65 degrees.
“Cars can warm up quickly, even if it’s cool outside,” she notes. “Be mindful of the temperature and where your pet is, and don’t hesitate to call your vet with any concerns. We’re always here to help.”
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