Overview
- Local humane societies in Milwaukee and Kansas City are warning that the current heat wave raises the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke in companion animals and are pushing urgent, practical precautions.
- Never leave a pet alone in a vehicle because interior temperatures can climb to lethal levels within minutes even with windows cracked.
- Limit outdoor time to cooler hours and test pavement before walks using the five-second palm rule: if you cannot hold your hand on the ground for five seconds it is too hot for paws.
- Watch for heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, lethargy, rapid pulse or abnormal gum color as signs of heat illness, cool animals with lightly cool or room-temperature water on paw pads, armpits and belly, and seek veterinary care immediately if symptoms persist or worsen.
- Give pets constant access to shade, fresh water and well-ventilated cool areas, take extra care with senior, overweight, flat-faced or sick animals, and remember that sidewalks can exceed 100°F even when air temperatures are lower.