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Press Releases
June
27, 2006
For
Immediate Release
Media
Contact: Michelle Pintar
Phone:
(414) 431-6104
E-mail:
mpintar@wihumane.org
The
Dog Days of Summer are Here!
GRAFTON,
Wis. – Did you know that dogs and cats
don't sweat? Heat is released from their body from
their paws and through panting. That's why it is
so dangerous to leave them in the car or out in
the sun. As our comfortable spring weather turns
into a typical hot and sticky summer, the Ozaukee
Humane Society wants to remind you of a few hot
weather tips to keep your companion animal from
getting heat stroke or exhaustion. We offer the
following tips to keep your furry pal safe:
•
NEVER leave your companion animal in a parked car,
even with the windows down. The inside of a parked
car can reach 160 degrees in just a few minutes.
•
Exercise your canine only during the cooler parts
of the day. Early morning and evening hours are
best. Also leave your animal outside for only short
periods of time.
•
Always provide plenty of fresh cool water at all
times.
•
NEVER tie your furry pal outside on a choke collar.
This tip applies all year round; he or she could
choke to death.
•
Allow access to the coolest part of your home. If
you don't have air conditioning, or you turn it
off while at work, make sure your companion animal
can get to a cool place, such as a basement.
•
Watch your animal for signs of heat stroke, which
include extreme panting, difficulty breathing, vomiting,
diarrhea, confusion, rapid pulse, bright red gums
and blue tongue or lips.
•
If your companion animal does exhibit signs of heat
stroke, immediately move him or her to a cool place;
lower their body temperature by wetting them with
cool water (do NOT apply ice); and call your veterinarian
for further treatment.
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Note:
Kim Schlote with the Ozaukee Humane Society
is available for interviews and can show how to
cool down a companion animal. To schedule an interview,
please contact Michelle Pintar at (414) 431-6104.
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