INDIANAPOLIS — With temperatures forecasted to reach highs of 90 degrees over the weekend, Indianapolis Animal Care and Services is reminding pet owners to know the dangers of the heat.
As temperatures starting to rise during the summer days, IACS is seeing an increase in calls regarding animals being left outside, according to a press release from IACS. In Indianapolis, an ordinance requires all pets to be brought inside or in a temperature-controlled facility when temperatures reach 90 degrees or higher.
Pet owners are also encouraged to watch for the following signs from IACS of a heat stroke:
- Panting
- Staring
- Anxious expression
- Refusal to obey commands
- Warm, dry skin
- High fever
- Rapid heartbeat
- Vomiting,
- Collapse
Even if a pet received emergency treatment for a heatstroke, IACS says they can be deadly.
IACS says pet owners should follow these tips to keep their pets safe during the hot weather:
- Never leave your pet in the car. Though it may seem cool outside, the sun can raise the temperature inside your car to 120 degrees Fahrenheit in a matter of minutes, even with the windows rolled down. If you need to run some errands, leave the furry ones at home.
- Make sure your pets do not overexert themselves. Though exercise is an important part of keeping your dog or cat at a healthy weight, which helps its body stay cool, overdoing it can cause your pet to overheat. Keep walks to a gentle pace and make sure plenty of water is easily accessible. Also try to limit exercise to the mornings, evenings or indoors if at all possible, outside pavement is 30-50 degrees hotter than the air temperature. If your pet is panting a lot or seems exhausted, it's time to stop.
- Before taking your dog on a walk, place the backside of your hand on the sidewalk pavement. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
- Water, water everywhere. Whether you're indoors or out, both you and your pet need access to lots of fresh water during the summer. Make sure to check the water bowl several times a day to be sure it's full. If you and your furry friend venture out for the afternoon, bring plenty of water for both of you.
