That's why the Pennsylvania SPCA is offering suggestions to keep your pet cool when the temperature starts rising.
- Animals should be kept indoors as much as possible during periods of excessive heat.
- If an animal is kept outside, they MUST have access to plenty of clean, cool water and shade.
- Animals should be kept off of asphalt, which absorbs more heat and retains it for much longer than grass or dirt.
- Animals should not be left unattended or tied-up in yards. Dogs who are left unsupervised when tied-up outdoors, or are tied up using incorrect collars and lines, can strangle themselves when moving around the yard.
- Provide access to a kiddie pool filled with cool, clean water.
- Wet your dog down with cool (not cold) water every hour and provide ice cubes in your dog's water bowl.
Anyone who sees an animal left outside for long periods of time without proper shelter or access to water should call the Pennsylvania SPCA's toll-free 24-hour cruelty hotline at 1-866-601-SPCA (7722).
For more, visit the website of the Pennsylvania SPCA.
