CBS 3 Pet Project: Protecting Your Pooch From The Heat
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The Delaware Valley is in the middle of another hot stretch of weather which is a good time to remind pet owners not to leave their animals in the car.
Pets left in hot cars or in the backyard for long periods of time run the risk of getting heat stroke.
Some warning signs to look for in your animal or a stray that you encounter are glazed eyes, lack of coordination and a reddish/purple tongue.
"If you see an animal in an un-airconditioned car, you want to call 911," said Nicole Wilson, sergeant supervisor of the PSPCA Humane Law Enforcement. "Due to the restrictions of our staff, 911 police officers can get there much faster and than we can assist them once they're on location and have begun the cooling process of getting the animal out and starting to cool it down."
If the animal is in a hot car in a store parking lot it's also a good idea to get a hold of the store manager.
Wilson says an animal can be cooled down by putting cold cloths over the animal and putting rubbing alcohol on their pads to help with the evaporation and movement of the heat away from the animal.
Most importantly, she says to get the animal to a vet immediately.
And did you know dogs can get sunburn?
Leaving about an inch of hair on your furry friend can help protect your pet from the sun and keep them cool.