LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — With dangerous heat continuing across the region, experts are reminding pet owners not to forget about their animals.
Animal experts say a good rule of thumb is that if you're hot, your pets are too. Watch for signs of heat stress, including excessive panting, red gums and lethargy.
Dogs should always have access to fresh water and shade and should never be left inside a parked vehicle, no matter how long you're gone.
During stretches of hot weather, keep walks short, limit outdoor playtime and monitor pets closely, even during quick bathroom breaks, as they can overheat quickly.
"If you do notice your dog getting overheated, you can take a cool, wet towel or washcloth and put it in between their back legs. It's a good area to start cooling them down. Plunging them into cold water is not good. You want to cool them down gradually and give them fresh water," said Julie Shellhammer, Allen County dog warden.
Experts say these heat safety precautions should continue throughout the summer, even after this week's heat advisory ends.
