With temperatures expected to reach 95 to 100 degrees this weekend, experts say owners need to watch for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke in their pets.
“You want to watch for signs of lethargy: they might start vomiting, they might have diarrhea. Check their gums, they could get really red and swollen and excessive panting as well. If you notice that and their temperature goes above 104, that’s a huge sign you should get them to the vet as soon as possible,” said Liz Bierman, Shelter Manager at A.D.O.P.T. Animal Shelter.
And these heat incidents are more common in pets than you may think.
In a report from PETA, 90 pets across the U.S. have lost their lives to heat stroke in the last two years.
Some helpful tips to keep your pup cool include walking early in the morning or late in the evening when the pavement is cooler.
You can also walk your dog on grass or gravel surface instead of pavement.
Naperville News 17’s Rachel Pierson reports.
