Community Corner

Safety Tips to Keep Your Pet Cool This Summer

Take care of your dog or cat during high heat days with these tips.

This summer is already looking like a hot one, and the 90-degree weather can affect pets as well as humans.

The Animal Care Network, a division of the Michigan Animal Adoption Network, has recently encountered dogs and cats suffering from heat stroke or heat exhaustion in metro Detroit. The non-profit organization offers the following advice for keeping your pets safe during the high heat days this summer.

Tips for keeping your pets cool:

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  • Heat stroke can happen in as little as 10 minutes
  • Avoid vigorous exercise and walking
  • Do not leave your pets in your car
  • Keep fresh cool water available at all times  
  • Keep your dog in a shaded area
  • Provide a "kiddy" pool for your dogs to cool off in

Signs of heat stroke in pets:

  • Increased temperature
  • Vigorous panting, thick saliva
  • Dark red gums
  • Lying down and unwilling or unable to get up
  • Collapse and/or loss of consciousness
  • Dizziness or disorientation 


What to do if you suspect heat stroke in your pet:

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  • Move your pet out of the heat and away from sun right away
  • Go to your local veterinarian immediately
  • Begin cooling your pet down slowing by placing cool washcloth or towel on the body, especially foot pads and around the head
  • DO NOT use ice or very cool water, only slowly offer cool water, do not force  

Local animal care

  • , Clawson
  • , Clawson

The above information was provided in a press release from the Michigan Animal Adoption Network.


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