With the hot temperatures in areas of Southern Alberta this week, a local animal shelter is offering tips on how to help your pet beat the summer heat.
Heaven Can Wait Animal Rescue Foundation took to social media encouraging pet owners to shift walking and outdoor times to cooler hours of the day, as pavement and asphalt can become hot and burn paws.
“Test the ground with your hand. If it's too hot for you, it's too hot for them,” the post said.
To ensure pets are hydrated, water bowls should be placed in shaded areas and refilled often. Frozen treats can also be an option to keep your pet cool and entertained.
Pet owners are encouraged to reduce the amount of time their pets are outside for walks and when playing and to always keep an eye on them while they are outside to ensure they are not overheating.
“If your pet wants to play in the backyard, ensure they have a shaded spot to go to for a break and plenty of water,” the Alberta SPCA website said. “Many dogs enjoy having a kiddie pool or other water sources to help stay cool.”
The foundation is also urging pet owners not to leave their animals in vehicles on hot days.
“Even on a 22°C day, the inside of a parked car can reach 47°C in under an hour. For animals, this can lead to heatstroke, brain damage, or death in just minutes, even with windows cracked,” the post said.
To prevent heat distress, it’s important for pet owners to be able to recognize the signs, such as excessive panting or drooling, lack of energy, weakness, vomiting, and restlessness.
“With any of these signs, act quickly by moving the animal to a cool space, offer a small amount of water, and contact your vet clinic as soon as possible,” the post said.
To keep pets cool indoors, the Alberta SPCA recommends allowing pets to have access to the coolest areas of your home, such as the basement, and ensuring blinds and curtains are closed to limit direct sunlight.