8 Pets Left in Heat Die Over Weekend

PHOENIX - The 110+ temperatures also pose a danger to our 4-legged friends, and over the weekend, the Arizona Humane Society is reporting that at least 8 dogs died due to heat exposure.

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"The EMTs are starting to bring more animals in to us that are affected by the heat... now with the monsoon, with the humidity, it is even worse," says Dr. Nancy Bradley of the Arizona Humane Society.

It is illegal to leave pets outside with no access to all-day shelter and fresh drinking water. Owners can be prosecuted for animal cruelty.

Over the past three weeks, emergency animal doctors have found 19 dogs dead on arrival.

There are a few things that will clue you in to if your pet is suffering from heat exhaustion. They are: loud, rapid panting; rapid pulse; glazed eyes; excessive salivation; elevated body temperature; excessive whining or agitation; staring and vomiting. If your pet possessing any of these symptoms, put him in the shade and hose him down with cool water, targeting the head, feet and groin area.

Make sure he's drinking water and take him to the veterinary clinic immediately.

Spot a pet that doesn't have access to water? Call the tipline: (602) 997-7586 ext. 2073

If it's urgent, call 911
 

AHS' Tips on Preventing Heat-Related Deaths

1. Keep your pets indoors. If you cant keep them indoors, they must have access to shade for as long as they are outside. Also be sure your dog has plenty of cool, clean water in a non-metal, spill-proof container and keep it in the shade. An in-ground swimming pool is not sufficient drinking water for your pet.
2. Do not exercise your pet strenuously. Avoid extra long walks, hikes or excessive play. Just like people, pets can experience heat exhaustion.
3. Walk your pet early in the morning or late at night. The hot pavement will burn and blister your dogs paws. If you have an assistance dog who must walk on hot asphalt, outfit him with booties to protect his paws.
4. Never leave your pet in a parked car. It only takes minutes for the inside of your car to get hotter than an oven.
5. Brush your pets coat frequently to keep it free of mats. If you shave your pet, remember that bare skin can sunburn. You can protect your pets skin by applying a zinc-free sunscreen to his hears and the top of his nose.