Patch Tips: How To Help Pets Beat The Heat

With summer heating up, the Connecticut Humane Society has several tips to help keep your pet healthy and cool during the dog days of July and August.

Pet owners are advised never to leave their pet in a parked car during warm weather. Even with the windows cracked and the car parked in the shade, "the inside of the vehicle can become a furnace in a matter of minutes," according to Connecticut Humane Society website.

"It is never safe to leave your pet in a parked car during the summertime," Connecticut Humane Society Public Relations Director Alicia Wright said. "Inside temperatures can increase to over a 100 degrees in a matter of minutes, putting your pet at risk."

If the animal is exposed to the high temperatures for too long, it could lead to a fatal heatstroke or heat exhaustion.

Wright advised pet owners to limit their animals' outside activities to the early morning, keep dogs and cats inside air conditioning and in the shade whenever possible and always make sure they have plenty of water.

"Remember hydrate, hydrate, hydrate," she said. Also, pet owners should walk their pets on the grass because the asphalt or concrete can heat up quickly and hurt their paw pads.

The onset of heatstroke can come on quickly and pet owners should be mindful of the signs, which include excessive drooling and panting. Some animals, such as pugs and Persian cats require extra care and are more prone to overheating, due to their flat faces. If you suspect your animal experiencing heatstroke or showing signs of it, pet owners are advised to bring their pet to the veterinarian immediately.

The Connecticut Humane Society is located at 701 Russell Rd. in Newington and its phone number is (800) 452-0114. The hours of operation are Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, visit the Connecticut Humane Society website.