Our friends at Oregon Humane Society urges animal lovers to follow these tips to keep their pets safe:

• Keep drinking water bowls full of cool, fresh water.
• Provide shaded areas where a pet can rest if outdoors.
• Pavement, asphalt, metal, and even sand that have been heated by the sun can burn dogs’ paw pads. Remember: if the surface is too hot for your bare hand or foot, it’s too hot for your dog’s feet.
• Utilize a kiddie pool for dogs to splash and relax in.
• Keep an eye on pets around water—not all pets are natural swimmers.
• Do not leave pets unattended outside when it gets hot; bring them inside.
• Leave your pet at home when you are running errands – never leave your pet in the car when the weather is warm. See the infographic below that shows how hot a car can get.
• Light-colored pets can sunburn—check with your veterinarian before applying sunblock to your pet’s nose.
• High energy dogs will likely not have as much energy on a hot day, so lowering the normal level of activity is very important. Walk or exercise your dog when the temperature is cooler in the early morning and late evening.
• Brain work such as using puzzle toys and teaching a new trick can be a good way to keep a dog busy in an air conditioned environment.

Oregon Humane Society is the Northwest’s oldest and largest animal welfare organization, with one of the highest adoption rates in the nation. OHS receives no government funds for its adoption, education and animal cruelty investigation programs. Visit oregonhumane.org for more information.

More information about heat hazards for pets can be found on the OHS website.