As summer temperatures rise across the country, animal advocates are urging owners to pay special attention to their pets’ welfare.
With the 4th of July approaching, meteorologists are predicting extreme heat conditions for certain parts of the country, including Utah, Colorado, New York, Ohio, and cities such as Chicago, Detroit, St. Louis, Dallas, and Nashville.
Both should have continuous access to fresh water and shade, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).
Cats regulate heat by grooming themselves.
In both species, animals with flat faces, like Pug dogs and Persian cats, are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively.
“These pets, along with the elderly, the overweight and those with heart or lung diseases, should be kept cool in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible,” the ASPCA said.
The safest place for all pets, regardless of breed or species, during extreme heat conditions is inside, according to Harvey.
"People rightfully get worried when they see dogs tied outside, chained outside for long periods of time," she said.
For indoor pets, welfare officials recommend changing daily outdoor bathroom and exercise breaks in hot weather.
Like human babies and children, under no circumstance should a pet be left alone in a car.
“Even if your car is parked in the shade with the windows rolled down, the internal temperature of your car can rise up to 140 degrees, which is unsustainable and can quickly become fatal,” the Humane Society Instagram video said.
Other hot weather tips include supervising pets around a swimming pool and skipping ice cubes.
“That temperature difference can be quite shocking,” the Humane Society said on Instagram about adding ice cubes to a pet's water bowl.