SULLIVAN COUNTY, Ind (WTWO/WAWV) — With the temperatures expected to be in the 90s the rest of the week, a local animal shelter is reminding everyone to take extra care of their pets.
Whether it’s walking, playing fetch, or letting your dog out for a few minutes, the Sullivan County Humane Society states how important it is to monitor pets in the extreme heat.
“The best place to keep your dog cool is inside, and be a part of the family,” said Julie Tow, President of the Sullivan County Humane Society. “If that’s not possible then a garage or a machine shop, something on your property that has air-conditioning.”
Tow also mentions limiting the outdoor exercise for dogs, especially walking on sidewalks or parking lots as they can be too hot for the dog’s paws.
“The pavement and concrete (get) very hot, they do not need to be walking on that. That’s like (people) walking barefoot on hot pavement or hot concrete,” said Tow.
Also, this time of year dogs of all types can suffer from heat exhaustion especially those with thicker coats.
Luckily for dog owners, the Sullivan County Humane Society shared additional tips to keep your pets cool and safe this summer.
- Keep pets in shaded areas especially if indoor space is not accessible.
- Do not keep pets in plastic dog houses, as they do not provide relief but rather trap the heat.
- Keep water bowls clean and changed frequently. Make sure the water is cool to keep the temperature manageable and water algae at bay.
- A small “kids pool,” in a yard is great way for dogs to be able to cool down outside.
- Never leave pets in a hot car.
For more information on the local humane society, you can visit their website here.
