BRISTOL, Ind. – The Humane Society of Elkhart County is reminding everyone of the precautions they need to take in order for their pets to avoid heat exhaustion and dehydration.

“This is extreme weather for animals and humans, please keep your animals safe. Make sure they have plenty of fresh water, think about the surfaces they walk on, leave them at home in a cool house. For livestock, make sure they have shade and plenty of fresh cool water,” Janet Graham said, Executive Assistant of the Humane Society of Elkhart County.

According to Graham, here are some easy tips to keep the pets safe and cool:

• Know the symptoms of overheating: excessive panting, difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rates, drooling, mild weakness, stupor or collapsing. Extreme symptoms include bloody diarrhea, vomiting and elevated body temperatures of over 104 degrees.
• Always provide plenty of shade and fresh cold water for your pet. For a cheap and easy way to entertain your dog give out a few ice cubes.
• Leave the pets at home! Pets in parked cars can be deadly. If you see a pet suffering in a car, please try to locate the owner or contact local police authorities immediately.
• Walk your dog in the early morning or evening when sun exposure is less intense. Asphalt can become extremely hot and burn paws in the afternoon sun.
• If your dog has a heavy coat, do not shave its fur to the skin. Keep the coat at least one inch thick to prevent burns. Also, special pet sunscreen is advised for use on noses and ears.
• Stay inside and find creative ways to help your pet’s burn off some unused energy. Create games or indoor training opportunities.

For heat related concerns and welfare checks of our community animals, please call our office for more information at 574-848-4225.