Sacramento County encourages residents to be aware that hydration is key, so make sure that your pets always have access to fresh, clean water on hot days. Photo courtesy of Sacramento County

 

SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) - Summer is just around the corner and the days are already heating up in Sacramento County.

As temperatures rise, it’s important for pet owners to take precautions to ensure that their furry friends stay safe and comfortable. While we might be able to seek out shade, sip cold drinks or turn on the AC, pets rely on us to protect them from the dangers of extreme heat. Whether you’re heading out for a walk, relaxing in the yard or running errands, here are some must-know tips to help your pets beat the heat.

Never leave pets in parked cars! Even on a seemingly mild day, the inside of a parked car can become dangerously hot within minutes. It’s not only incredibly risky, it’s also illegal in California. Leaving your pet in a vehicle, even with the windows cracked, can be deadly. Always take your pets with you or leave them safely at home.

Hydration is key, so make sure that your pets always have access to fresh, clean water. On hot days, they’ll need to drink more than usual to stay hydrated.

If your pet shows signs of heat-related illness, avoid giving them cold water or submerging them in cold baths, as this can shock their system. Instead, offer cool (not cold) water and contact a veterinarian immediately.

Avoid the heat of the day by scheduling walks and outdoor playtime during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. Pavement and asphalt can get extremely hot and could burn your pet’s paw pads. A good rule of thumb is to place the back of your hand on the surface for seven seconds and if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.

Provide shade and cool spaces if your pet is outdoors and make sure they have plenty of shade and cool drinking water. Indoors, use fans or keep them in an air-conditioned room to help them stay comfortable. A cooling mat or damp towel on the floor can also help pets beat the heat.

Use pet-safe sunscreen for pets with light-colored fur or exposed skin, especially on the nose and ears, as they can get sunburned. Use a veterinarian-approved pet-safe sunscreen to protect these sensitive areas, especially if they spend time outdoors.

Not all pets are natural swimmers. Always supervise pets around pools or open water and consider using a pet life jacket. Avoid strong currents and cold water, which can cause shock or panic.

Know the signs of heatstroke by recognizing symptoms early, which can save your pet’s life. Symptoms include excessive panting or drooling, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, vomiting, lethargy and collapse. If you suspect heatstroke, move your pet to a shaded or cool area immediately and seek emergency veterinary care. Gradual cooling is best; use a damp towel or gently mist them with water while you wait for help.

To stay informed and prepared for more hot weather pet safety tips and information on how to recognize heat-related illnesses in animals, visit the Sacramento County Animal Care Services website at animalcare.saccounty.gov/Pages/default.aspx.

Looking to adopt a pet? Come meet your future best friend at 3839 Bradshaw Road in Sacramento. The shelter is open from noon to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays and from noon to 6 p.m. Wednesdays.

To license your pet, report a lost or found animal or learn about other available services, visit BradshawShelter.net.