Heat Warning for Pet Owners

The Anti-Cruelty Society Urges Special Pet Care in this Excessive Heat

The National Weather Service has issued an "excessive heat warning" for the Chicago area. The current warning runs through Friday. The Anti-Cruelty Society strongly advises that pet owners provide an area where their pets can stay cool during this extreme heat.

• If your dog has to be outdoors, he or she must have a sheltered area to cool down and rest and plenty of fresh, cool water at all times.

• Limit walks to the cooler hours in the morning or evening.

• Do not jog with your dog during this excessive heat. Be on the lookout for excessive panting or drooling-this may be a sign of heatstroke or distress.

• Never leave an animal in a parked car in warm weather. Even with windows open, the temperature inside can reach deadly heights in just a few minutes.

• If your pets become too hot, they could suffer heatstroke. Signs include difficult, then rapid breathing; reddened tongue and gums; a blank stare, or sudden collapse. Emergency action is necessary: bring the body temperature down immediately by covering the animal with cool (not cold) compresses, remove from the sun and take it to your veterinarian for a complete examination.

• The elderly, the overweight, and pets with flat faces such as Pugs or Persian cats are more susceptible to heat stroke. Be extra sensitive to the needs of high-risk animals.