Caring for Our Pets in the Heatwave

It's HOT for us.  Imagine how dangerous this can be for pets who may be living out in the elements.  A heat advisory is in effect for the lower Columbia Basin and Oregon through Thursday evening.  Triple digit heat is expected with temperatures rising as high as high as 110 degrees.

Familiarize yourself with symptoms of overheating.  Difficulty breathing or excessive panting, increased heart and respiratory rate, and drooling are signs of distress.

There are some tips to keep your your pets from overheating, courtesy of the ASPCA.

Please , DON'T leave your pets in your vehicle.  The car can get hot enough to cause heatstroke, brain damage, and death.

Always make sure your pets have access to clean, fresh water.  If you can, add ice to the bowl. And, make sure your pets have a shady place to get out of the sun.  If you can, keep them indoors when it’s extremely hot.

Remember, the pavement is hot. Just like our feet, their paws are sensitive and can burn.  Please keep this in mind when walking your dogs.  Grass is always a better alternative to pavement for your pooch.  You may want to walk early in the morning, or later in the evening.

Never leave your dog unattended near water. Make sure your pets have a flotation device if they're on a boat. And, if swimming in a pool, be sure to rinse your pets and keep them from consuming the pool water.

Plentiful food, water, and shade are musts in this heatwave.  Cats also can experience sunburn, if they lay in the sun for an extended time.  It's best to keep your pets indoors.