Press Releases

June 28, 2005
For Immediate Release
Media Contact: Michelle Pintar
Direct: (414) 431-6104
E-mail: mpintar@wihumane.org

Milwaukee is Heating Things Up This Summer...Literally

MILWAUKEE – Milwaukee is having a heat wave, and your companion animal could be in danger. Just like people, companion animals are very susceptible to heat stroke and heat exhaustion when the temperatures climb. The Wisconsin Humane Society offers the following tips to keep your furry pal safe:

•  NEVER leave your companion animal in a parked car, even with the windows down. The inside of a parked car can reach 160 degrees in just a few minutes.

•  Exercise your canine only during the cooler parts of the day. Early morning and evening hours are best. Also leave your animal outside for only short periods of time.

•  Provide your companion animal with plenty of fresh cool water at all times.

•  NEVER tie your furry pal outside on a choke collar. This tip applies all year round; he or she could choke to death.

•  Allow access to the coolest part of your home. If you don't have air conditioning, or you turn it off while at work, make sure your companion animal can get to a cool place, such as a basement.

•  Watch your animal for signs of heat stroke, which include extreme panting, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, rapid pulse, bright red gums and blue tongue or lips.

•  If your companion animal does exhibit signs of heat stroke, move Fido or Fluffy to a cool place; lower their body temperature by wetting them with cool water (do NOT apply ice); and immediately take your animal to a veterinarian for further treatment.

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Note: A veterinarian is available for interviews and can show how to cool down a companion animal. To schedule an interview, please contact Michelle Pintar at (414) 431-6104.