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Don't let animals get beat by summer heat

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Diana M. Cossaboom
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  As the summer approaches it is important for pet owners to stay aware of conditions outside to eliminate potential harm to personal animals.

Whether it's heat, bugs, car safety, fertilizers or deadly plants; being aware is the first step for pet owners to protect their furry friends.

HEAT and CAR SAFETY

According to the United States Humane Society, on an 85 degree day the temperature inside a car can reach approximately 102 degrees within 10 minutes even with the windows slightly open.

In 30 minutes, the car can reach temperatures up to 120 degrees, which can cause an animal inside to suffer irreversable organ damage or death.

Humidity and exercise in hot temperatures can also be fatal for animals.

"For dog safety in the summer we monitor how long we keep the dogs outside and how much activity we do at a time," said Staff Sgt. Brittanie Monahan, 20th Security Forces Squadron military working dog trainer. "Also, you have to work your dog up to being outside for an extended time."

If the humidity is too high, they are unable to cool themselves, and their temperature will skyrocket to dangerous levels very quickly, according to the American Humane Society.

The American Humane Society reccommends to adjust intensity and duration of exercise according to the temperature, and if needed, limit activities to early morning or evening. If walking or running with a pet, be aware that heat from asphalt can burn paws.

"Always make sure they dog has plenty of water, but don't let them drink too much at one time," said Monahan. "Never feed your dog within an hour of strenuous activity."

The American Red Cross urges that pickup truck drivers should not let dogs ride in the truck bed. Flying debris can cause serious injury and the dog may be unintentionally thrown into traffic.

Signs of heat stroke include:
  • Heavy panting
  • Glazed eyes
  • A rapid heartbeat
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Excessive thirst
  • Lethargy
  • Fever
  • Dizziness
  • Lack of coordination
  • Profuse salivation
  • Vomiting
  • A deep red or purple tongue
  • Seizure
  • Unconsciousness

If an animal is suffering from heat stroke get the animal out of direct heat, check for shock, take the animal's temperature, place water-soaked towels on the animal's head, neck, feet, chest and abdomen, and take them directly to a veterinarian.

"I never put my dogs in weather I don't want to be in myself," said Monahan. "If they are outside running around, I make sure to be out there with them which gives be a better grasp on how hot they are and when they need to come back inside to the air conditioning."

INSECTS and PLANTS

Awareness of toxic plants, fleas and ticks will keep a pet safe. Make sure to provide animals with vet approved treatments to prevent fleas and ticks.

A list of plants harmful to pets can be found at www.humansociety.org

"Always do spot checks with the dog," said Staff Sgt. Anthony Despins, 20th SFS MWD handler. "Check their whole body to make sure nothing is out of place and nothing new has popped up that you need to keep an eye on or take to the vet."


If concerned for an animal's well-being or inappropriate handling on base, contact the Shaw AFB law enforcement desk at (803) 895-3669.