Tips on how to keep your Pets cool this summer

The temperature is rising fast this summer, with that extreme heat it is not only us who suffer but also our pets.

The American Red Cross has made steps you and your family can follow to stay safe in the heat.

As you head outdoors this week, the biggest tip, says the American Red Cross is to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.
“You know our mothers always told us, ‘drink a lot of water,’ and a lot of times we don't,” Daniel Peterson of the Red Cross says.

The Red Cross says children and the elderly are the most susceptible to the heat, so watch for signs of heat exhaustion.

“Basically, where a person starts to get red, they might get dizzy or nauseous, and they'll start sweating a lot,” Peterson says. “Heat stroke is critical and you need to call 9-1-1. That's actually when its life-threatening and the person losses consciousness.” The SPCA tells us pets can also suffer from heat exhaustion and heat stroke too.

“I've seen a dog seizure from heat stroke and it’s an awful sight,” Katie Meskil, SPCA shelter director, says. “They're more susceptible to it after the first time they get it and it can eventually be deadly.” So make sure your pets have access to shade and cool water. The Red Cross says people should take the same advice when working in the hot temps.

“If you are on a shift for eight hours working on a road, make sure you have water at all times and that you do have more breaks, especially when it gets hot and you are in direct sunlight,” Peterson advises. And never, ever leave your children or pets in a vehicle. In the summer months, the temperature inside can reach 120 degrees in less than five minutes.

“Even if you are running in for a quick beverage at the local convenience store, don't leave them in the car,” Peterson says. The Red Cross also recommends that parents schedule play dates and sport activities first thing in the morning, or in the evening when the temperatures are cooler.

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