Hot weather tips from the DCSPCA

HYDE PARK — As summer temperatures continue to soar, the Dutchess Country SPCA is reminding residents to take precautions to keep their pets safe.

"Our companion animals suffer just like we do in the hot summer months and it is so important that we provide special care to ensure their well-being," said Joyce Garrity, executive director, Dutchess County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

The DCSPCA advises that pet owners take the following
precautions for pets:

• Never leave an animal unattended in a parked vehicle. Temperatures can rise quickly in a parked car, even with the windows cracked open. Heat stroke can be fatal to pets as well as to people.
• Keep lawn and garden pesticides out of the reach of your animals as they can be toxic to both dogs and cats. When walking your dog, stay away from streets that you suspect have been sprayed with insecticides and/or other chemicals. Be sure to also keep citronella candles and insect coils in a secure place so that your animal does not have any contact with them.
• Make sure that clean, fresh water is always available for your pets. Do not leave a dog tied up outdoors. If your pet is allowed outdoors, make sure that it has access to a shady spot when it gets too hot. Paws can get burned on hot asphalt and concrete so take daily walks in the early morning or late evening to prevent your pet from becoming overheated. Take special care with animals with short-noses that may have trouble breathing in the heat and ones with white-colored ears, which burn easily in the sun.
• If you are caring for outdoor cats, make sure that they have access to a plentiful supply of water and keep feeding stations clean to prevent an invasion from ants and other insects.
• Keep a close eye on pets at a cookout. Reaching for tempting treats from the barbecue can result in burned paws and whiskers. And as tantalizing as it may be, do not give your pet treats from the grill as a sudden change in diet can result in a serious gastric upset. Also keep alcoholic beverages in a safe place and avoid raisins, grapes, onions, chocolate and products that contain Xylitol, a sweetener.
• Not all dogs can swim, and precautions should be taken to prevent an accident from happening when you are at a pool, lake or ocean with your pet.
• Keep your pets well groomed to control fleas and ticks; however, don't shave your pets down too much as their fur insulates them from the heat and prevents sunburn. Ask your veterinarian for advice about how to handle emergencies for bee stings and insect bites, using pet first aid.
• Prevent "High-Rise Syndrome," a common tragedy that occurs when cats and dogs fall out of apartment windows during the sweltering months in the city. Keep all unscreened windows closed and make sure that adjustable screens are tightly secured to keep your pets safe.
• Learn how to spot signs of heat stress in your pet, which include the following symptoms: heavy breathing, a rapid heartbeat, excessive thirst, heavy panting, glazed eyes, restlessness, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue and becoming unconscious. If your animal shows any of these symptoms, immediately call your veterinarian. Also take steps to gradually lower their body temperature; move the animal into an air-conditioned area and apply cold towels to the head, neck and chest or run cool water over the pet and allow the animal to drink small amounts of cool water.