Dear Editor:
Now that summer weather has finally arrived, the Governor’s Domestic Companion Animal Council wants to remind you that when the weather is hot, your pets are better off at home!
It’s certainly important to spend time with your pet, but on hot summer days, home is that place to be. Summer is the season for flea markets, outdoor concerts, fireworks and picnics, but your pet may not always be welcome at these events. Owners may be tempted to leave their pets in the car, but this scenario can quickly turn deadly. On a warm day, the interior of a parked car can reach 100 degrees in a matter of minutes, even with the windows partially open. Even a quick stop at the grocery store can have dire consequences.
In addition to the risk to your animal, you could be subject to legal action. New Jersey state law 4:22-17 states that any person who leaves an animal unattended in a vehicle under inhumane conditions adverse to the health or welfare of the living animal or creature can be fined $1000 and/or sentenced to six months in jail. If you do not spot an animal in parked car, you should notify the local police or the New Jersey SPCA as soon as possible. You don’t need to wait until the animal shows symptoms of heatstroke, but if this does occur, you may want to offer first aid.
Signs of heat stress include heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, staggering, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue. You must lower the animal’s temperature immediately. Move your pet into the shade and apply cool (not cold) water all over his body to gradually lower his body temperature. Apply ice packs or cold towels to your pet’s head, neck and chest only. Let the animal drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice cubes and take him to a veterinarian right away– it could save your pet’s life.
The Governor’s Domestic Companion Animal Council wishes you and your pets a safe, happy and healthy summer!
Sincerely,
Nina Austenberg, Chair
Domestic Companion Animal Council