The hot summer days in Imperial County can be dangerous and at times deadly for pets. Take care of and protect your pet from the summer’s heat. Below are safety tips to help protect your pet during summertime.

Protect your pet from the summer heat:

• Always keep plenty of fresh water available for your pet
  Water should be kept cool and in a shaded area at all times. The container should be
  large enough and in a place that will prevent spilling. The water should be changed at
  least once a day.
• Never leave your pet in a car during the summer months
  Temperatures in a vehicle can exceed 120°F in a matter of minutes, even with the
  windows partially open. Your pet can quickly suffer brain damage or die from a heat
  stroke or suffocation while in a car.
• Avoid excessive exercise during hot weather. Exercise your pet in the early
  morning or late evening.
• Make sure that your pet has access to a shaded area outside at all times.
• If your pet uses a kennel, keep it well ventilated and positioned in a shaded
  area to avoid midday sun and heat.
• Install a mister system to help keep you pet cool outside.

Signs of pet heat stress:

• Anxiousness
• Vomiting
• Staggering/Unsteadiness
• Glazed eyes
• Heavy Panting/Collapse
• Deep red or purple tongue

If your pet has become overheated -take immediate action:

• Move you pet to the shade and apply cool water (not cold) all over its body
  (spray with a garden hose)
• Apply ice packs or cold towels to your pets head, neck and chest only
• Let you pet drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice cubes
• Contact a veterinarian immediately

​Additional Resources:

• Summer Heat & Pet Safety