Pet owners should take precautions with high summer temperatures – June 17, 2012

The Oakland Press (theoaklandpress.com), Serving Oakland County

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Pet owners should take precautions with high summer temperatures

Sunday, June 17, 2012 9:39 PM EDT

By CHRIS LAINE
Of The Oakland Press
claine@journalregister.com; Twitter: @topherlaine

With hot summer temperatures, pet owners should take necessary precautions when carrying for their furry friends.

Roseville-based animal group Michigan Animal Adoption Network has stated that they already have encountered several cases of heat stroke and heat exhaustion in pets in places such as Pontiac and Inkster.

The Animal Care Network is recommending pet owners practice the following steps in regard to summer temperatures when caring for their pets:

• Heat stroke can happen in as little as 10 minutes, so avoid vigorous exercise and walking.

• Do not leave your pets in the car.

• Keep fresh, cool water available at all times.

• Keep your pet in a shaded area.

Signs of heat stroke and exhaustion in animals include:

• increased temperature,

• vigorous panting,

• thick saliva,

• dark red gums,

• lying down and unwilling or unable to get up,

• collapse and/or loss of consciousness,

• and dizziness or disorientation.

If you suspect heat stroke in your animal, you should practice the following tips:

• Move your pet out of the heat and away from sun right away.

• Go to your local veterinarian immediately.

• Begin cooling your pet down slowly 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.

Visit the Animal Care Network’s website at michigananimaladoptionnetwork.org.

Contact staff writer Chris Laine at 248-745-4673, chris.laine@oakpress.com or follow him on Twitter @topherlaine.

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