The heat is on (or soon will be)........

Our medical director, Dr. Caroline Thomas advises:

“With hot weather coming quickly, it is important to remember that our animal friends, just like humans, are susceptible to heat stroke.  Animals that at the highest risk are elderly; obese; brachycephalic (smushed-faced) breeds like pugs, bulldogs, boxers, persian cats; have long, thick fur coats; and have underlying heart and/or lung disease.  Signs of heat stroke begin with excessive panting.  As these signs progress, heart and respiratory rates increase, excessive drooling is noted, and lethargy develops.  Stupor, collapse, seizures, bloody diarrhea and vomiting can occur in severe cases.  If any of these signs are noted, veterinary care should be obtained immediately, as heat stroke can be life threatening if not treated promptly. 

Prevention of heat stroke is essential.  Animals at high risk should be kept in air conditioning as much as possible.  Shade and ready access to fresh cool water should be provided at all times.  Animals should never be left in the car, even if the windows are open.  Avoid hot asphalt, as this can burn the paw pads and transfers heat quickly to your pet.

With this awareness of the dangers of heat stroke, you and your pet will stay safe and healthy even on the hottest summer days in Florida.”

Good to know.  Remember, there are codes in place in Pinellas County about animals in vehicles:

Sec. 14-34. - Animals in vehicles.

(a)  No vehicle owner, passenger, or operator shall place or confine an animal or allow it to be placed or confined or to remain in an unattended vehicle without sufficient ventilation or under conditions or for such a period of time as may reasonably be expected to endanger the health or well-being of such animal due to heat, lack of water or such other circumstances as may be expected to cause suffering, disability or death.

With Florida being warm most of the time, a car can get dangerously hot in moments .

Today, I have a really cute dog to show you.  This is Rambo.  He is a 2 year old American Pit Bull Terrier whose owner dropped him off with us because his owner did not want to travel back to the North with a dog!  He arrived on Valentine's day and has been waiting for that caring someone to adopt him.  His serial number is 296383 and he weighs about 50 lbs.  He has been with us for too long so we lowered his adoption fee to just $25.

DONATE BLOOD!  On April the 4th from 1-4pm Florida Blood Services will be at our shelter.