With weather temperatures on the rise, People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) asks animal owners to be aware of pets overheating.
PETA said at least 22 dogs, including four puppies, have died from overheating outside or in hot cars so far this year.
A dog was rescued on Sunday from Cowles Mountain after overheating in 75 degree weather, according to PETA.
PETA recommends the following steps be taken for animals during hot weather:
- Keep animals indoors
- Provide water and shade
- Don’t run with them
- Avoid hot cars
- Never transport in the bed of a pickup truck
- Avoid hot pavement
- Using a cooling vest or mat
- Keep an eye on your outdoor animals
Some symptoms of heat stress, exhaustion and heat stroke in animals are as follows:
- Heavy panting
- Excessive drooling
- Loss of coordination
- Change in mental state
- Vomiting
- Lack of appetite
- Low amounts of urine production
- Black, tarry stool
- Rapid pulse
- dark red tongue
- Muscle tremors
- Unconsciousness
If your pet shows symptoms, PETA said get the animal in shade and try to lower the body temperature by either submersing in tepid water or applying cold towels over the chest and head, and call a veterinarian immediately.
