Pet Owners Advised to Prepare for Heat Wave

Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control Date:  August 24, 2010 Contact:  Evelina Villa, (562) 256-1364     L.A. COUNTY ANIMAL CARE AND CONTROL ADVISES PET OWNERS TO PREPARE FOR THE HEAT                 The Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) would like to advise pet owners to prepare for the forecasted heat wave this week. DACC would like to remind pet owners of precautions that should be taken to keep your pets cool and comfortable in the heat.        In extreme heat, it is best to leave your pets at home.  Limit your pet’s exercise to early morning or evening hours.  Pets can suffer from heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can be life-threatening. Be aware of common signs of heat stress, which could include: heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, or vomiting. Should this happen, immediately immerse (or spray) your pet with cool water and take the animal to a veterinarian as soon as possible.         Always make sure your pets have easy access to clean, fresh water and a cool, shaded area during the day.  Never leave a pet in a parked car.  Not only can leaving your pet in a car be fatal, but it is also a crime. Even with the windows open, the inside temperature of a car can easily soar to 120 degrees within minutes on a warm day.         These precautions are as important for rabbits, birds, hamsters, etc. as they are for dogs and cats. These small animals are especially sensitive and cannot withstand hot temperatures for long periods of time.  They should be caged in a cool, shaded area and out of direct sunlight.  They must always have cool, fresh water as well.        For more information, visit our website, http://animalcare.lacounty.gov or contact or visit your local animal shelter.