With summer and climbing temperatures, The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) reminds readers of the serious consequences of leaving animals inside parked cars. Animals, like people, suffer from the heat. The two most common hot-weather hazards for pets are being left outdoors with inadequate protection from the heat or being left inside a parked car. Pets who are subjected to direct sun without plenty of water even for a short period can easily suffer heatstroke.
The HSUS advises that pets be left indoors at home where they are safely confined and protected from the heat during summer months. If you do see an animal in a potentially dangerous situation during hot weather, notify the police, local animal control authority or humane society immediately. Contact a veterinarian immediately if your pet shows any signs of heat stress such as heavy panting, glazed eyes, rapid pulse rate, dizziness, vomiting or a deep red or purple tongue. Move your pet into the shade, spray him with cool water, and allow him to drink a small amount of cool water if possible. Transport your pet to a veterinary hospital quickly to determine whether emergency care is needed. Taking these steps could save your pet's life.You call teach others about the dangers of leaving pets in unprotected from the heat by obtaining panel card fliers from the HSUS. These panel card fliers can be placed in store windows, on bulletin boards or in cars. Send a business-size, self-addressed, stamped envelope with your request for fliers to: "Hot Car," The Humane Society of the United States, 2100 L Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20037.
Dennis J. White
Director, Southwest Region
The Humane Society of the United States
Dallas