Hinsdale Humane Society recommends the following pet pointers. Follow them and you'll help your pet be comfortable and safe during the spring and summer.
- Never leave your pet in a parked car. Open windows or shaded parking areas won't save your pet's life.
- Signs of heat stress: heavy panting, glazed eyes, rapid pulse rate, dizziness, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue.
- If your dog does become overheated, get him into the shade and take these emergency steps:
- Apply ice packs or cold towels to the head, neck and chest.
- Don't give an unlimited amount of cold water. Let your pet lick ice cubes or even ice cream.
- Get the pet to a veterinarian immediately.
- Check your pet regularly for fleas.
- Never use flea control products intended for dogs on cats.
- Have your pets tested for heart worm.
- Make sure your pet's vaccinations are up-to-date.
- Make sure your pet is wearing a collar and proper identification tags or has been microchipped.
- Always keep your pet under control in accordance with local leash laws.
- Always pick up after your pet.
