As temperatures soar this summer, the Hamilton County Commissioners and the Humane Society for Hamilton County (HSHC) remind pet owners to be extra vigilant when it comes to ensuring the safety and well-being of their pets.
“Leaving animals outside in the heat can have serious and even fatal consequences,” HSHC President & CEO Rebecca Stevens said. “The Sheriff’s Office recently brought a senior dog into the shelter suffering from heat stroke. I don’t know that he will make it.”
Not only is protecting your animal from heat the humane thing to do, but it’s also the law.
Hamilton County updated its animal ordinance in 2019 to include new temperature guidelines to protect animals from extreme weather conditions. The ordinance stipulates that pet owners must provide animals with adequate shelter, food, water, and space, including adequate shade when the temperature exceeds 80 degrees. Any person caught violating this section of the ordinance can be fined up to $500 per occurrence.
“Animals are highly susceptible to heat stress,” Stevens said. “Even on seemingly mild days, the sun’s intensity can make outdoor surfaces extremely hot. Pets left without access to shade and fresh water are at risk of heatstroke, dehydration, burned paw pads, and organ damage.”
Senior dogs, puppies, heavy-coated dogs, and any type of brachycephalic dog breed like Pugs, French Bulldogs, Boxers, and English Bulldogs are particularly vulnerable, as they cannot regulate their body temperature as effectively as humans.
Pet owners are encouraged to take the following precautions when temperatures rise:
- Limit outdoor time: Minimize your pet’s time outdoors during peak heat hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Provide ample shade: If your pet must be outside, ensure they have access to shady areas at all times. Shade helps reduce the risk of heatstroke.
- Plenty of water: Always provide cool, clean water for your pets to stay hydrated. Check the water dish frequently to ensure it hasn’t run dry.
- Never leave pets in vehicles: Even with the windows cracked, temperatures inside a vehicle can become dangerously high within minutes. Leave your pets at home if you’re running errands.
- Protective paw care: Asphalt and concrete can become scorching hot in the summer sun, causing burns to your pet’s paw pads. Walk them on grassy areas or invest in protective booties.
- Recognize signs of heat stress: Be attentive to signs of heat exhaustion, including heavy panting, lethargy, vomiting, and rapid pulse. If you suspect heatstroke, seek immediate veterinary assistance.
- Indoor comfort: Create a comfortable indoor environment with proper ventilation and air conditioning for your pets to retreat to during hot days.
Click here to read Hamilton County’s animal ordinance.