Does your dog love rides in the car? Colby sure does! He’d go every chance he could get, no matter the day or the weather.
When the sun is out and it’s a gorgeous day how can you resist your kiddo’s plea to go with you…but a fun ride in the car can turn deadly for your beloved pet.
Did you know the temperature inside of your car rises to a dangerous level for animals in a few short minutes, even with the windows cracked open.
For example, when the temperature outside is 78° the temperature inside a car can reach 105° in 20 minutes.
Temperatures inside a car increase an average of 19° in the first 10 minutes, by 30 minutes the temperature averages 33° hotter than the temperature outside. That’s TOO HOT for your pet!
Even if you think you’ll only be inside for just a few minutes, don’t risk it because it only takes 5-10 minutes for heatstroke to affect your kiddo.
Signs of heatstroke include:
- Lying flat or acting lethargic
- Rapid heart rate
- Heavy panting and drooling
- Red gums, tongue or skin
- Seizures
- Vomiting, diarrhea
What to do if you pet has signs of heatstroke
- Get your pet out of direct sun/heat and offer them water to drink.
- Wet towels with cool (not cold) water and place on your dog’s head, neck, feet and abdomen.
- Call your veterinarian right away.
When it’s hot outside it’s best to leave your kiddo’s indoors and at home. You can find more tips online at www.oregonhumane.org/heatsafety
