As forecasted humidex values continue to cross the 40 degree mark in the Ottawa Valley, the Ontario SPCA and Renfrew County Animal Centre is urging residents to take extra precautions to ensure their furry friends can handle the heat.
According to Community Outreach Coordinator Heather Jobe, the SPCA is launching an awareness campaign to help make sure residents are taking the steps they need to protect their pets.
The “No Hot Pets” initiative is promoted by the SPCA and Humane Society every year in the summer, Jobe says.
The organization is also reminding owners to ensure pets have constant access to fresh drinking water, shade and a cool place to rest when outdoors. It recommends avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day and walking dogs in the early morning or evening when temperatures are lower. Pet owners are also advised to be aware that pavement and sand can become hot enough to burn animals’ paws.
The organization says owners should watch for signs of heat-related illness, including excessive panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting and difficulty breathing. Puppies, senior animals, brachycephalic breeds and pets with underlying health conditions may be at greater risk.
Anyone who finds an unattended animal inside a hot vehicle should report it immediately, Jobe says. Meanwhile, folks who suspect an animal is suffering from heatstroke should move it to a cool area and seek immediate veterinary care.
Anyone interested in taking the No Hot Pets pledge can visit the campaign’s website. People who take the pledge are entered for a chance to win a Yeti prize pack.
(Steve Berard)
