The City of Menifee issued a news release to remind Menifee pet owners to take precautions during excessive heat. “The best thing to do during excessive heat is to keep all animals inside in cool places,” said Animal Control Chief Mo Middleton of Animal Friends of the Valleys. “But if the animals can’t be brought inside, they must be given shade and plenty of water.”
Misting fans, sprayers, and hoses can help keep cattle, horses, and pets cool in excessive heat conditions. “Horses can lose more than seven gallons of fluid as sweat,” said Middleton. “It is important to note that if the sum of humidity and temperature exceeds 130 degrees, horses and other animals can be at risk for heatstroke,”
The city reminds residents that pets should not be kept in a car for any length of time without the air conditioner on. Additionally, pet owners should consider not walking their pets once the day heats up. Pavement can burn a pet’s pads.
“Dogs that suffer from heatstroke will become restless and either pant or drool excessively,” said Middleton. “They may not respond to their name and appear unsteady on their feet. They should be moved to a cool area immediately, and pets with a high temperature should be cooled by wetting their ears, abdomen, and feet, and seek veterinary care immediately.”
For more information on ways pet owners can protect their animals in times of excessive heat or weather, call Animal Friends of the Valleys at 951- 674-0618 or visit www.animalfriendsofthevalleys.com.
