Tuesday, July 15, 2008

For Immediate Release

Media Contact:  Angela Speed

 (414) 431-6104  aspeed@wihumane.org

SAFETY ADVISORY

Keep Sparky Safe from Summer’s Scorching Heat

Grafton, Wis. –  Temperatures in Southeastern Wisconsin are expected to climb this week, so please don’t forget that extreme heat affects dogs and cats, too!  Just like people, companion animals can get heat stroke and heat exhaustion.  Unlike people, however, they cannot regulate body temperature in the same way and different dog breeds respond to hot weather differently.  The Ozaukee Humane Society wants to remind the community how to keep their furry friends safe.

• NEVER leave your companion animal in a parked car, even with the windows down.  The inside of a parked car can reach 160 degrees in just a few minutes.
• Exercise your canine only during the cooler parts of the day.  Early morning and evening hours are best.  Leave your animal outside for only short periods of time.  Also, keep your cat indoors where they are safer.

• Never tie an animal outside in the sun!  Always make sure they have a shady spot when outside in extreme temperatures, as well as plenty of fresh, cool water.

• Allow access to the coolest part of your home.  If you don’t have air conditioning, or you turn it off while at work, make sure your companion animal can get to a cool place, such as a basement.

• Take extra precautions for old, overweight or snub-nosed dogs in hot weather. Dogs with heart or lung diseases should be kept indoors with air conditioning.
• Watch your animal for signs of heat stroke, which include extreme panting, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, rapid pulse, bright red gums and blue tongue or lips.  Animals exhibiting signs of heat stroke should be moved to a cool place and have their body temperature lowered with cool water (do NOT apply ice), then taken to a veterinarian for further treatment.

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Photo/Interview Opportunity: Please call Angela Speed if you would like to speak with an OHS Representative about hot weather dangers. Contact Angela at 414.431.6104 or aspeed@wihumane.org.