Imagine you’re trapped inside a parked car. The windows are only open a crack. The temperature is rising, and you have no water. On top of all this, imagine you’re wearing a thick coat and that you have no idea when you’ll be able to get out of the car.

Did you know that a dog left in a car on a warm day can collapse from heatstroke in just minutes? Many people love their dogs and want to take them with them wherever they go. But when the mercury rises, it’s safest to leave Rover at home.

On a 78-degree day, a car parked in the sun can reach 160 degrees in minutes. Even opening windows or parking in the shade won’t prevent a dog from getting overheated. The heat is especially hard on dogs because they can only cool themselves by panting and by sweating through their paws. With only hot air to breathe, dogs and other animals can suffer irreparable brain damage and even die of heatstroke.

PROTECT YOUR DOG BY TAKING THE FOLLOWING PRECAUTIONS:

Don’t take a chance; leave your dog at home on warm days. Even just a quick trip to the store can be deadly.

Learn the signs of heat exhaustion: restlessness, excessive thirst, heavy panting, lethargy, lack of appetite, dark tongue, rapid pulse, fever, vomiting, glazed eyes, dizziness, or lack of coordination.

If your dog shows any of these symptoms, get him or her to shade or air conditioning right away. Lower body temperature gradually by providing water to drink, applying a cold towel or ice pack to the head, neck, and chest, or immersing your dog in cool (not cold) water.

If you see a dog, or a child, in danger, first CALL 911, then try to have the dog’s guardian paged inside the store.

Time is of the essence…even a few moments could be deadly for a dog left inside a hot car. Step up and protect the innocent…don’t let a dog die.

757-622-PETA      HelpingAnimals.com