5 tips to keep your pets safe during a heat wave

The first sustained heat wave hit Metro Detroit this week and people with pets will want to take steps to protect them.

—> Heat wave hits Metro Detroit this week: What to know

State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland said in 2022 that during times of high temperatures and high humidity, animals can quickly become overheated. It’s very important to keep your pets hydrated and cool.

While you should be able to recognize the signs of heat stress in your animals, it’s even more important to prevent it from happening in the first place, Wineland said.

—> What different heat alerts mean and tips to stay cool during a heat wave

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) offered the following tips to keep pets safe:

Provide unlimited cool, clean, fresh water

Animals need constant access to cool, clean, fresh water to prevent dehydration.

Know their limits

The type of animal, it’s age, breed, type of coat and health history can determine how well they can tolerate heat.

Keep an eye on your pets for signs of heat stress like increased panting, drooling or acting lethargic. If they show those signs take them to a cooler area.

Your veterinarian can give you guidance on how to best handle your pet in hot water.

Test surfaces so they won’t burn their paws

Asphalt, concrete and sand can get extremely hot in the sun — which can burn paws or make a walk uncomfortable.

Test surfaces with the palm of your hand. If it’s too hot for you, take a different route that is mostly grass or wait until the evening when everything has cooled to walk your pet.

Do not leave pets in parked vehicles

Vehicles can get extremely hot and would be a deadly place to leave a pet. Leaving windows cracked or parking in shade will not help much. If you need to leave the house, leave your pet at home.

Make sure pets have a place to cool down