Mayor’s Alliance for NYC’s Animals Offers Summertime Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe
Jane Hoffman, President of the Alliance, said, “Dogs and cats are particularly vulnerable in high heat and humidity. Following a few common sense tips will keep your pet safe, healthy, and comfortable in this week’s dangerous weather conditions.”
- Never leave your pet unattended in a parked car, even for a “minute.” Even with a window cracked open, a parked car can heat up dramatically and pose an immediate danger to an animal. If you see a pet in a parked car, seek out a police officer or call 911 for help.
- Don’t take your dog out during the hottest time of the day. This will help protect her from overheating and sunburn. Yes! Your dog can get sunburn. Also, remember that asphalt, blacktop, and concrete get hot! Dogs — little ones, especially — are very close to the ground. The radiating heat can contribute to your dog overheating, and burn their paws.
- If you take your dog for a walk in hot, humid conditions, wet his coat thoroughly — including the paws and outside of the ears — before you leave the house. Bring water!
- Limit your dog’s exercise. A dog’s temperature can soar to 106-degrees in a flash. If your dog begins to exhibit signs of distress — heavy panting, difficulty breathing, bright red tongue, vomiting, and/or unsteadiness — get him to a cool place and call your veterinarian.
- Make sure your cats and dogs have access to clean, fresh water.
- Check that your window screens are secure to protect your pets from falling out.
Hoffman added that no matter what time of year it is, make sure your pets are spayed or neutered, microchipped, licensed (dogs), and protected against fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes.
About the Mayor’s Alliance for NYC’s Animals®
The Mayor’s Alliance for NYC’s Animals is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charity that works with more than 150 partner rescue groups and no-kill shelters to offer important programs and services to save the lives of NYC’s homeless animals. Receiving no government funding, we are supported by donations from foundations, corporations, and individuals. As we mark our tenth anniversary in 2013, we are committed to transforming New York City into a no-kill community by 2015: where no dogs or cats of reasonable health and temperament will be killed merely because they do not have homes. www.AnimalAllianceNYC.org
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