Hot Dogs aren’t Cool!!

Kitchener. June 1, 2006 - The weather forecast this week is 30 degrees or more, leaving your dog in the car for even a short time can be deadly.  The Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society urges owners to remember that even with the windows open, and parked in the shade, a dog can suffer sever heat stroke or die in a matter of minutes.

Because of a limited ability to sweat, dogs left in cars can go into distress in the time it takes you to buy a can of soda.  Their normal body temperature is 39 degrees, at 41 degrees brain damage can occur.  A car heats up rapidly and is like putting your dog in an oven.

Over the past week, the Kitchener–Waterloo Humane Society responded to multiple calls to aid dogs in distress.  “We are particularly busy with these types of calls at shopping areas”, says cruelty officer Gary Boes.  “Too often the owner stops to pick up something and thinks they will only be a moment.”   If you need to shop, plan ahead and leave Fido at home.  If you see a dog left in the car please contact the KW Humane Society at 745-5615.

What KWHS can do when called:

The Humane Society will respond to calls of distress first.  However we cannot legally break a window to get the dog out of a car, we must show ‘just cause’ of distress.  We are now able use an infrared thermometer to gage the temperature inside a car.  An instantaneous reading means we can remove a pet in hot temperatures before it is too late.  “These devices are literally lifesavers,” says Boes.  “They are also incredible educational tools as well.  You show a dog owner how hot it is in their car and their mouths drop open in disbelief.”

Signs of distress:

Heat exhaustion in your pet will include excessive panting or drooling and listlessness.  If heat exhaustion is suspected, time is of the essence as brain damage can occur rapidly.  Wet the fur with lukewarm to cool water. If a hose is handy, use it to bring the animal’s body temperature down. Bring the pet into the shade and offer drinking water.  Call the KW Humane Society at 745-5615.  Heat stroke has occurred if the animal is unconscious. Do not wait - take them to a veterinarian immediately!

Heat and Humidity:

When it is too hot for you, think of your fur covered friends.  Keep your pet in a shady, well-ventilated place with fresh water in a spill-proof container. Better yet, let your pet stay indoors and enjoy the cool comfort of your air conditioned home, or your cool basement.

Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society:

Since 1927, the Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society (KWHS) has been responsible for the welfare of animals in the twin cities of Kitchener, Waterloo, and their surrounding communities.  KWHS is one of the largest humane societies in Ontario.  As a member of the community, our mission is to be a proactive leader in providing humane care through education, advocacy and enforcement to promote the well-being of all animals.

For more information, please contact Ward McAlister, Executive Director, or Kathy Innocente, Fundraising & Community Relations Manager at the Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society at 519-745-5615.