Sunshine in the forecast for B.C. begs the reminder, don乌鸦传媒檛 leave dogs in hot cars.
While the province urged residents to stay safe and noted the rising temperatures won乌鸦传媒檛 hit heat dome status this week 乌鸦传媒� the dangers to those left in hot cars remain.
A short time in a hot car can cause harmful and life-threatening effects. Dogs can乌鸦传媒檛 release heat by sweating, as humans do, so their internal body temperature rises more quickly, the BC SPCA reminded.
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While most people mean well, the BC SPCA strongly recommended not breaking a window if a dog is left inside a vehicle. Legally, only police and BC SPCA special constables have the authority to enter a vehicle to help a pet in distress.
Breaking a window risks harming the dog and puts the prospective Good Samaritan at risk. What folks can do, is keep a kit in the car that includes bottled water, a small bowl, a small battery-powered fan, and a towel that can be soaked in water.
If there is a window slightly open, hydrate the animal while awaiting an emergency response.
Even leaving the car with the air conditioning running isn乌鸦传媒檛 recommended by the BC SPCA as it can stop working.
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If a dog is showing clear signs of distress, promptly call local animal control, police, or the BC SPCA helpline at 1-855-622-7722.
Signs of heatstroke:
乌鸦传媒� Exaggerated panting or the sudden stopping of panting
乌鸦传媒� Rapid or erratic pulse
乌鸦传媒� Salivation, anxious or staring expression
乌鸦传媒� Weakness and muscle tremors or lack of coordination
乌鸦传媒� Convulsions or vomiting, and collapse
What to do:
乌鸦传媒� Move your pet to a cool, shady place
乌鸦传媒� Wet the animal with cool water
乌鸦传媒� Do not apply ice as this will constrict blood flow and discourage cooling
乌鸦传媒� Fan your pet to promote evaporation. This cools the blood, helping to reduce the animal乌鸦传媒檚 core temperature
乌鸦传媒� Allow your pet to drink some cool water (or to lick ice cream if no water is available)
乌鸦传媒� Take your pet to a veterinarian as soon as possible for further treatment
BC SPCA also offers tips on caring for pets during hot weather in general online at
christine.vanreeuwyk@blackpress.ca
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