How to protect pets from heat stroke during summer heat waves

Schaumburg, IL

— The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has released a video warning pet owners about the record heat being experienced across the country. The video can be viewed at www.avmatv.org, YouTube, and www.avmamedia.org.

"It's only the second week in July, and already the summer of 2010 has produced record-setting heat waves in many cities, including New York, Boston and Washington, D.C.," said Dr. W. Ron DeHaven, chief executive officer of the AVMA. "When the heat rises, it can be a dangerous time for pets."

Dr. DeHaven explains in the video that many pet owners don't know that pets are even more susceptible to heat stroke during a heat wave than we are. This is because the vast majority of pets in America have fur coats, don't sweat and can only pant or drink water to cool off.

"Signs of heat stroke include hard panting, staggering gate, rapid heartbeat, listlessness, restlessness, dark red or purple gums and tongue, and vomiting," he explained "If you suspect your pet has heat stroke, put a cold towel around their neck, get them into an air conditioned car and get them to the veterinarian as quickly as possible."

Cars also pose significant summer dangers to pets.

"In the summer, a car parked in the sun can become deadly. Never leave your pet, or a child, in a car in the summertime. Even with the windows cracked, a car's inside temperature can increase as much as 40 degrees in an hour," Dr. DeHaven said. "This means heat stroke, and possibly death, can come within just minutes."

For more information, view the entire video at AVMA-TV at www.avmatv.org, Youtube or the AVMA Media Library at www.avmamedia.org, or visit the AVMA website at www.avma.org. The video is open for free use on any website.