8 tips for keeping pets safe in Minnesota summer heat
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With a prolonged stretch of hot weather expected across Minnesota, humans — and their pets — need extra precautions to stay safe this week.
Heat is the leading weather-related cause of death in the United States and the world, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and World Health Organization, and can exacerbate pre-existing health conditions.
Sarah Bhimani, director of communications at the Animal Humane Society, shared helpful tips and reminders with MPR News about keeping pets cool with high temperatures.
“The thing with animals is they can't vocalize their needs or how they're feeling to us, and so, as their guardians, we're really the ones looking out for their well-being,” Bhimani said.
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Note: these tips are mostly aimed at dogs and cats that spend time outdoors, which make up the majority of pets in U.S. households nationwide.
1) Minimize time outside in high heat.
If you have air conditioning, keep pets indoors when it’s hot. If you must go outside, keep potty breaks short. Walk in the morning or evening when it’s cooler.
Bhimani said ideal temperatures for animals depend on their breed, fur length, age and health condition. However, the Animal Humane Society uses the following temperature guide internally to limit dog walks outdoors.
Up to 85 degrees: Operate as normal
86-99 degrees: Potty breaks and short walks ok
100 degrees and above: Potty breaks only
2) When outdoors, keep close attention to your pet and avoid direct sun.
Stick to shade and carry plenty of fresh water, so your pet doesn’t overheat. Notice how they might be breathing or lifting their feet.
3) Check pavement temperatures.
Air and ground temperatures can differ by a lot. Asphalt streets can be 40 to 60 degrees hotter than air temperatures, according to NASA researchers tracking Earth surface temperatures.
Bhimani said if pavement is too hot for your hand to touch, it’s too hot for your pet to walk on. Their paw pads risk getting burned. Keep pets on grass for comfort.
4) Know the signs of heat stroke in dogs.
Signs include excessive panting, a rapid heart rate, red or pale gums, excessive drooling, nausea, vomiting, confusion, lethargy or unresponsiveness.
In this case, act quickly to bring their body temperatures down and take them to an emergency veterinarian.
5) If your pet overheats, bring their body temperature down safely.
Bhimani said a sudden body temperature shift can cause other issues. The Animal Humane Society recommends offering plenty of cool water, draping towels over their body and splashing cool water on their legs.
6) Create dog-friendly popsicles as a hot weather treat.
People can freeze a food toy with peanut butter or wet food so dogs have something cool to chew on.
7) Do not leave pets in a vehicle.
Even with a window open, cars can quickly reach temperatures that put animals at risk of serious illness or death, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.
“Even leaving your pet in your car for just a few minutes, just don't do it,” Bhimani said. “Especially when it's super hot outside.”
8) Call the Animal Humane Society’s free helpline for assistance finding resources or a cooling center that accepts pets.
The Pet Helpline is 952-HELP-PET (or 952-435-7738). There is also an online message option on the Animal Humane Society’s website.
