Mabel takes a quick stroll on an unusually hot Monday morning.
During a week of sweltering heat, pet owners should avoid allowing their dog to be outside for too long.
The National Weather Service in Pittsburgh anticipates that heat index values will reach up to 104 degrees in the region.
When it is this hot, taking care to make sure four-legged friends are not outside too long can avoid health emergencies like heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
“Ideally, you want to keep them in as much as possible in heat like this. Short breaks outside,” said Hollie McCracken, a veterinarian technician at East Maiden Animal Clinic in Washington.
McCracken added that dogs with “smushed” faces, like pugs or bull dogs, are more susceptible to heat-related sickness.
The NWS recommends limiting exercise in general, but also cautions to be wary of the asphalt. Robert Leighty, office manager at Grace Veterinary Services in Lemont Furnace, suggested touching the back of your hand to the ground for about seven seconds.
“If it’s too hot for your hand, then it is too hot for your dog,” Leighty said.
Dogs can end up with burns on their paws when the asphalt is too hot. McCracken said these cases usually require a trip to an emergency veterinarian.
“No exercising unless it’s early in the morning or later, after the sun goes down,” Leighty said.
According to McCracken, excessive panting and a red tongue and gums are signs of heat exhaustion.
“Cool them down, and get them seen as soon as possible,” Leighty said.
Leighty also noted that when it is above 90 degrees it is illegal for dogs to remain tethered outside any longer than 30 minutes. If for whatever reason they cannot be brought inside, Leighty said they should be in an enclosed area with shade and water.
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