Pet Safety in Summer Heat
Summertime has arrived once again in Southern Utah – a time when temperatures soar and our pets desperately need our extra care and attention. The American Red Cross offers the following tips to help ensure that your pets stay healthy and safe this summer:
-Never leave your pet in a hot vehicle, even for a few minutes. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees, even with the windows cracked open.
-Limit exercise on hot days. Exercise in the early morning or evening hours only.
-Walk your pet in the grass if possible, to avoid hot surfaces burning their paws.
-If your pet is outside, make sure they have access to shade and plenty of cool water.
-Water safety is important for your furry friends. Do not leave pets unsupervised around a pool, as they aren’t all good swimmers.
-Watch your pets closely at backyard barbecues. Keep them away from the grill and know that some food can be poisonous. Avoid raisins, grapes, onions, chocolate, and products with artificial sweeteners.
-Heat stroke is a common problem for pets in the warmer weather. Dogs with short noses or snouts, like the boxer or bulldog, are especially prone to heat stroke, along with overweight pets and those with an extremely thick fur coat. Signs of heat stroke in your pet include heavy panting, inability to calm down, brick red gum color, fast pulse rate, and inactivity.
-If you suspect your pet has heat stroke, contact your veterinarian.
-Keep all doors and unscreened windows closed, and make sure screens are tightly secured.
-Remember that some plants in your garden can be hazardous to animals. Visit the Animal Poison Control Center to find out which plants and flowers are off limits.
Please visit www.redcross.org for more information. The Pet Cremation Center of Southern Utah wishes you and your pets a safe and happy summer. Visit us at 1316 S. 400 E., Ste. A3 in St. George, or contact us at (435) 523-4800.
https://www.petcremationcentersu.com.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @PetCremationCenterSU
