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Summer temeratures a danger to pets

As the temperature rises, so do the risks for your pet.

As the temperature rises, so do the risks for your pet.

That’s the message from the B.C. SPCA as it ramps up efforts to raise awareness about the hazards and potentially fatal consequences when mixing hot summer heat and animals.

Many people like to take their dogs with them to the beach or on errands, but it’s risky to take a canine friend in a vehicle. The temperature inside a parked car at this time of year, even one that’s in the shade, can climb well above 38 C.

Dogs can withstand high temperatures for only a very short time before suffering irreparable brain damage or even death.

“Dogs can die after just 10 minutes in a hot car,” said Craig Naherniak of the B.C. SPCA. “It’s much kinder and far safer to leave your friend in a cool environment.”

Naherniak recommends the following tips for keeping your dog safe:

* Don’t leave your pet in the car. Even a car parked in the shade can pose a threat to your pet if the sun should change direction and heat up the car’s interior.

* Use caution when running, cycling or rollerblading with your pet, as these activities pose serious risks of heatstroke, accidents and anxiety experienced by the animal. If you run or cycle with your dog, choose cooler times of day such as early morning or late evening and take plenty of breaks. Also, run on soft trails rather than on cement and asphalt, which can burn your pet’s foot pads.

* Always take water and an appropriate container from which your dog can drink.

* Have the number of a veterinarian on hand so that you are prepared in case of an emergency.

“If you see a dog in a car on a hot day that you believe may be in trouble, call your local SPCA, animal shelter, or police immediately,” advises Shawn Eccles, B.C. SPCA chief animal protection officer.

Besides dogs and cats, it’s important to take good care of your small animals such as guinea pigs, rabbits and rats. Never put their cages near windows and provide shelter and shade if they are enjoying outdoor time. On the hottest days, adding dishes of ice into enclosures will assist in lower temperatures. And, of course, watch them closely so they don’t become overheated.

For more information on pet safety visit spca.bc.ca.