(WXYZ) — With metro Detroit entering a period of hot and dry weather, it's important for pet owners to keep their furry friends cool and safe.
Above-average temperatures are going to persist through the first week of July, and may last through at least the middle of the month.
The Michigan Humane Society says leaving your pet alone in a hot car can be life threatening within a matter of minutes. A car can overheat even when the window has been left cracked a few inches.
MHS offers the following tips to help keep your pets safe from overheating:
- Always have fresh cold water available for them.
- Make sure that if they are outside they have access to multiple shaded areas.
- Watch out for signs of overheating such as excessive panting, pale gums, lack of saliva, no energy, and no appetite.
- To prevent fly bites, use Vaseline on your pets’ ears, tail, and back.
- Be mindful of the hot cement so your pet doesn’t get paw burns.
- Don’t leave your pets alone in the car.
