A Gentle Reminder: Never Leave Pets in Hot Cars

This is the time of year when we all start to hear about people leaving their pets in their cars. Here in Oregon, it’s been over 90 degrees the last day or two. It saddens me that this still happens.

Since safety is part of our goal here at HodgePaws, I just wanted to take a minute to give everyone a quick reminder.

Temperatures can increase dramatically in a parked car — even with the windows down or cracked. Hot temperatures can lead to heatstroke and, sadly, can be fatal. This can happen to anyone. If you think it’s too hot in your car, it probably is too hot to leave a beloved pet in the vehicle, even for just a few minutes.

Things to remember:

• Dogs don’t cool down like we do — they have to pant, and that’s not always productive in a hot car.

• Dogs of certain ages or breeds may be more susceptible to heat-related health issues.

• Make sure your dog stays hydrated and avoid anything that could put them in harm’s way.

What to watch for: Signs of heatstroke in dogs

If your dog has been exposed to heat, here are some signs to watch for:

• Heavy or excessive panting

• Drooling or thick saliva

• Bright red or pale gums

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Lethargy or acting “off”

• Trouble standing or walking normally

• Collapse or seizures

If you notice any of these signs:

• Get your pet to a cooler area right away.

• Offer small amounts of cool (not cold) water.

• Gently wet their paws, belly, and ears with cool water.

• And most importantly — contact a vet immediately.

Let’s do our part to keep our pets safe this summer. Sometimes it just takes a quick reminder to prevent something serious.