Submitted by the BC SPCA
With record high temperatures expected this week across the province, the BC SPCA is reminding everyone to take special care of their pets.
READ MORE: Dangerous heat wave warning issued for B.C. Interior
Most importantly, never leave pets in parked vehicles on a hot day, and leave them at home when you are out running errands.
“We can’t stress strongly enough how dangerous it is to leave your pet in a hot car,” said Lorie Chortyk, general manager of communications for the BC SPCA. “Last year, the BC SPCA responded to more than 800 calls about animals in distress in hot cars. The temperature in a parked car, even in the shade with windows partially open, can rapidly reach a level that can seriously harm or even kill a pet.”
She notes that because dogs have no sweat glands, they can only cool themselves by panting and by releasing heat through their paws.
“Dogs cannot withstand high temperatures for long periods, particularly older pets and brachycephalic breeds such as pugs, bulldogs, Boston terriers, and others with compressed faces,” said Chortyk.
SPCA officers are called out to “worst case” situations every summer, where a beloved pet is in critical distress or has died after being left in a hot car.
“It is a completely preventable tragedy for both the poor animal and their distraught guardian,” she said. “If you will need to leave them in a parked vehicle, even for a few minutes, don’t take them. Your dog will be much happier – and safer – at home, with shade and plenty of fresh cool water.”
What to do if you see a dog in distress in a parked vehicle:
• Note the license plate and vehicle information and ask managers of nearby businesses to page the owner to return to their vehicle immediately.
Symptoms of heatstroke in pets:
• Exaggerated panting (or the sudden stopping of panting)
• Rapid or erratic pulse
• Salivation
• Anxious or staring expression
• Weakness and muscle tremors
• Lack of coordination, convulsions
• Vomiting
• Collapse
If your pet shows symptoms of heatstroke:
• Immediately move the animal to a cool, shady place
• Wet the dog with cool water
• Fan vigorously to promote evaporation. This will cool the blood, which reduces the animal’s core temperature.
• Do not apply ice. This constricts blood flow, which will inhibit cooling.
• Allow the animal to drink some cool water (or to lick ice cream if no water is available)
• Take the animal to a veterinarian as soon as possible for further treatment.
If you see an animal showing signs of heatstroke or other distress, please call the BC SPCA Call Centre at 1-855-622-7722 during business hours or contact your local animal control agency, RCMP, or police.
