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    Keep animals cool during hot weather PDF Print E-mail
    (July 25, 2008) - Oklahoma City Animal Welfare officers are warning residents to keep their animals out of the heat during the dog days of summer.  Officers investigated the heat related deaths of four dogs this week.

    According to Animal Field Specialist Rodney Pesch all four deaths were preventable.  “Pet owners don’t realize that companion animals are more susceptible to overheating than humans.  In fact, dogs and cats are built to retain heat, not lose it.  Panting is their only defense.”

    If the pet must be left outside during the day, owners should provide plenty of clean water and constant access to shade.  Exercise should be limited to the coolest part of the day.

    “While it’s not unusual for pet owners to take their companions with them on short errands and even family vacations, animals should never be left in a car,” added Pesch.  This proves to be particularly disastrous when outdoor temperatures exceed 75 degrees.  Since car windows collect light and trap heat, temperatures can rise dramatically, even on mild days.  A cracked window provides little relief for animals.

    Older, obese and short-nosed dogs tend to be more susceptible to heat stress than other dogs.  Retrievers also experience a higher rate of heat stroke because they can play until the point of collapse.

    Signs of heat stress in animals include heavy panting, glazed eyes, rapid heartbeat, restlessness, excessive thirst, fever, lethargy, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting and unconsciousness. Pet owners can use the following methods to ease heat-related symptoms:

    Move the animal into the shade or air conditioning
    Apply an ice pack or cold towel to the animal’s head, check or chest
    Provide small amounts of cool water or ice cubes
    If the situation is dire, take the animal to a veterinarian.

    Owners can be charged with animal cruelty if their pet is in distress or dies from heat-related neglect, even if it’s an accident.  The charge can range from a misdemeanor to a felony.
     
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