Pet Safety During Minnesota’s Heat Wave

Keep Your Pets Safe in the Heat

Pets can feel the heat just as badly as we do, and when temperatures climb into the 90s and beyond, owners need to act fast.

1. Stay Cool Indoors
   • Keep animals inside a cool room or an air‑conditioned space whenever possible.
   • If they must go outside, give them plenty of shade and a stable bowl so they can drink whenever they want.

2. Watch Your Dog’s Health
   • Older, overweight or brachycephalic dogs should stay out of the heat.
   • Move walks to early morning or late evening, and test the pavement with bare feet—if it burns you, it’s too hot for your dog.
   • Stick to grass or shaded paths and watch for signs like lifting paws, limping or sudden restlessness; those are clues it’s time to head back.

3. Grooming Matters
   • A tangled coat can hold heat, but shaving a pet completely removes the natural sun protection it needs.

4. Never Leave a Pet in a Car
   • Even if windows are cracked, the interior can reach dangerous temperatures very quickly.

5. Recognize Heat‑Stroke Symptoms
   • Heavy panting, drooling, a rapid heartbeat, or a very high body temperature.
   • If you spot any of these signs, cool the animal’s legs with lukewarm water or a shallow pool—avoid soaking them in very cold water, which can shock the body.
   • After cooling, take the pet to a veterinarian immediately.

These steps help keep pets comfortable and safe during the hottest part of summer, preventing serious illness or death.