WASHINGTON — With temperatures climbing into the upper 80s and temperatures reaching the 90s into next week, District residents and Maryland and Virginia neighbors are bracing yet again for a string of hot days. The heat and humidity return Sunday with some strong storms. On Monday, the heat continues to build into the area with highs in the 90s and the heat index creeping up toward the upper 90s to near 100. Monday and Tuesday will be the hottest days of the week with the heat index near 100 on both days and a slight chance for a shower or storm in the afternoon.
As the hot summer temperatures continue, risks that come with being out in the sun will as well. The risks don’t just pose a threat to people, though; your four-legged friends will need some extra care and concern as well.
Be sure to never leave a pet in a hot car - “Not even for a minute! Not even with the car running and air conditioner on,” The Humane Society of the United States advises on their website. “On an 85-degree day, for example, the temperature inside a car with the windows opened slightly can reach 102 degrees within 10 minutes. After 30 minutes, the temperature will reach 120 degrees. Your pet may suffer irreversible organ damage or die.”
It’s also important to remember that it’s not just the temperature that’s worth keeping an eye on. High humidity can also be risky - that can make it challenging for your furry friend to cool themselves down, which can result in a dangerous predicament.
It is likely best to simply limit exercise with your pet on particularly hot days, or plan walks or fun in the park in the early mornings or evenings when the temperature goes down. Plan to walk your pet on the grass instead of asphalt - when it's been baking in the heat, it can potentially burn their paws. Be sure to always keep water on hand and seek shade for your pet, too.
The Humane Society also urges the public to always be on alert for signs of heatstroke.
Take note of the fact that some breeds of dogs, such as Pugs, Shih Tzus, Boxers and cats with short muzzles do have a harder time breathing in intense heat. Animals are also at greater risk if they are overweight, aren’t used to prolonged exercise, especially elderly or young or have a heart or respiratory disease.
“Some signs of heatstroke are heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, seizure and unconsciousness,” The Humane Society specifies.
If you see your pet experiencing the symptoms of heat stroke, be sure to get them to a veterinarian right away. In the meantime, plan to supply them with small amounts of water or ice cubes to lick and apply cooling packs or cold towels to their head, neck or chest. Another option is pouring cool water over them.