Hot Cars No Place for Pets - Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island

Hot cars no place for pets

By Heather A. Perry, News-Leader


For tips on keeping your animal companions safe and healthy during summer, visit www.mydogiscool.com.
Now that hot weather is upon us, it's time again to recognize the danger posed to pets by the rising temperatures.

According to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, or PETA, the temperature inside a vehicle can reach 160 degrees in a matter of minutes on a 90-degree day.

"The general rule of thumb is it's never a good idea to leave a pet in a car," said Dr. David Mersereau of Four Paws Pet Clinic in Yulee.

"In Florida the temperatures get too high too quickly. Even with the windows lowered, you don't get enough ventilation in a car that's parked. Dogs are not able to sweat so the only way they relieve excess heat is by panting."

Additional signs of hyperthermia may include acting unsteady, staggering and eyes glazing over.

"Sometimes the dog's gums get deep red or purple and they often feel hot to the touch."

Pet owners who believe their dog is suffering from hyperthermia should take immediate action to lower their body temperature by applying cool water, not cold, and offering them water to drink.

"I strongly recommend seeing a vet right away because heat stroke can be fatal," said Mersereau. "The best treatment is IV fluids because this cools them down at the core."


Leaving pets unattended in a vehicle isn't just dangerous, it's illegal. Florida deems it a third-degree felony to leave an animal unattended in a parked car with no shelter from the heat. Violators may be given up to five years in prison, a $10,000 fine or both.

It's not just pets in cars that are in danger of heatstroke during summer. Outdoor animals suffer in extreme weather, too.

"All outdoor dogs in Nassau County should have available shelter that is closed on three sides and has a roof. This structure should preferably be under shade because if you've ever been inside a shed in the summer that sits directly in the sun, you know it's awfully hot in there," said Mersereau, who advocates fencing as opposed to chaining a dog.

"I've seen dogs come in with injuries to their legs and feet as a result of becoming tangled in the chain. Also, if another dog comes into the yard and attacks them, they have nowhere to go to escape the other animal."

Chaining a dog to a tree or tether with no shelter in extreme temperatures is considered animal cruelty and is punishable under the same laws governing pets in a car.

Another thing to consider during summer's warmer temperatures is outdoor activity. Although dogs often enjoy running beside their jogging owners or going along for a bike ride, be sure to limit these activities to the early morning or evening hours. If you've just got to bring Fido along during your morning jog, be sure to carry enough water to share with him.

Consider leaving pets at home during outdoor festivals. While you may think your pet enjoys the socialization, chances are he'll become dehydrated or uncomfortable as temperatures rise, or burn his feet on the hot pavement or asphalt.



Sidewalks and streets aren't the only hazards to dogs' sensitive paws. Trans-porting dogs in the bed of a pickup truck can lead to serious injury. Metal heats to dangerous temperatures under the Florida sun and can easily scorch tender paws. Animals can also fall out of the truck during a sudden stop or choke if they jump out while tied.

To report an incident of pets left in a car or other instances of animal cruelty, call Nassau County Animal Services at 491-7440. After hours or emergencies, call 498-0824. In Fernandina Beach, call Fernandina Beach Animal Control at 491-0122.

To learn more about the dangers of chaining your dog, visit unchainyourdog.org.




Story created Jun 08, 2009 - 12:32:29 PDT.