During the "dog days" of summer, the temperature inside a parked car can reach dangerous levels of 120° in just a matter of minutes. Just 15 minutes can be enough for an animal's body temperature to climb from a normal 102.5°, according to Roy Gross, Chief of the Suffolk County SPCA. Pet owners should never leave their animals unattended in a parked car for any period of time, cautions Chief Gross, even with the car windows partially open. "Your pet can quickly suffer brain damage or die from heatstroke when trapped in these high temperatures," said Chief Gross. Dogs can only cool themselves by panting and sweating through their paw pads.
Don't let dogs ride loose in pick-up truck beds; the hot metal can burn a dog's paws. Also, direct exposure to the sun and flying debris can injure the dog. If your pet is exposed to high temperatures:
Be alert for signs of heat stress-heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, lack of coordination , vomiting or a deep red or purple tongue.
If your pet becomes overheated, you must lower her body temperature immediately.
Move your pet into the shade and apply cool (not cold) water all over her body to gradually lower her temperature.
Apply ice packs or cool towels to your pet's head, neck and chest only.
Let your pet drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice cubes.
Finally, take your pet directly to a veterinarian-it could save his/her life.
If you see a pet in a vehicle on a hot day, take immediate action:
Note the car make, model, color and plate number, then go to the nearest stores and ask the managers to page the owner.
Call the police who have the authority to enter the vehicle and rescue the pet.
© 2010 