Upcoming extreme heat causes warning for furry friends
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- This week’s heat will be brutal and it’s not just humans who are at risk.
Without proper precautions, the intense temperatures can seriously affect the health and safety of pets.
From Monday, July 21 through Sunday, July 27, daily highs are expected to reach into the 90s, with heat indices soaring close to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Days that may feel tolerable to humans can be dangerously hot for four-legged companions.
It’s important to understand the risks and be prepared. Just like people, pets are vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Staying hydrated and keeping them cool is essential.
According to the National Weather Service, asphalt and concrete surfaces can be 10 to 20 degrees hotter than the air temperature during the day. What feels moderately warm to humans could be scalding to your pet’s paws.
Aubrey Couch, an animal care specialist with St. Joseph Animal Services, shared this tip:" The best rule of thumb is to put the back of your hand down on the pavement. and if it's hot for you, it's hot for them."
Couch warns, pets can burn the pads of their feet, leading to painful sores and blisters. But, hot pavement isn’t the only concern.
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are serious health threats for animals. Some of the common signs of heat-related illness in pets include an irregular heart rate, excessive drooling, lethargy, refusal to eat and heavy panting.
While some panting is normal in dogs, excessive panting can indicate distress. In cats, however, any panting at all is considered abnormal and may be a red flag for heat exhaustion or other health issues.
Couch reminds pet owners to pay close attention to their pets' behavior.
"If you see they are acting off and they've been out in the heat, it is really important to get them checked out and to contact your veterinarian as soon as you can," said Couch.
Local ordinances are also in place to protect pets. According to City of St. Joseph Ordinance Chapter 5, Article 2, tethered animals may not be left outside when temperatures exceed 85°F.
For more information on animal heat saftey you can visit www.weather.gov/wrn/summer-article-keep-your-pets-cool.
