Tips to keep dogs and other pets cool in the heat

Weiss says many businesses these days will allow you to bring in animals for a short time. Still, she says, they’re best left at home.

“Lots of people like to leave the vehicles running when it is hot outside, let the air conditioning going. What happens if you know it runs out of gas or the vehicle stops that kind of thing,” Weiss says. “If you absolutely have to take them with you then take them into the business with you. Even if it’s just for a quick minute ask if that’s OK.”

When it comes to taking them outside for extended periods, Weiss says that if it’s too hot for you to be outside, it’s too hot for your pets. She says to be smart about when you walk them, perhaps waiting until the sun goes down instead of taking them out in the middle of the day.

Even inside make sure fresh water is available at all times and you could even leave a water dish outside for animals that could be lost or stray.

Weiss adds if you see signs of heat exhaustion like vomiting, lethargy and excessive panting get your pet to the nearest vet clinic as soon as possible.

Medicine Hat got a bit of a reprieve from the hot weather today but the temperatures are expected to rise above 30 C again mid-week. After a couple of cooler days on Friday and Saturday, the forecast is for a steady rise in temperatures for a few days, topping out at 35 C on Aug. 10.

by Chris Brown

Tips to keep dogs and other pets cool in the heat

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