Humane Society warns pet owners as spring heat intensifies

With temperatures reaching the 90s in late Februrary, the Arizona Humane Society is urging pet owners to take precautions as spring heat settles across the Valley.

Heat-related illness can occur well before temperatures hit triple digits. Some pets may struggle in temperatures as low as 80 degrees, especially brachycephalic, or flat-faced, breeds such as bulldogs and pugs. Seniors, puppies, overweight pets and animals with underlying medical conditions are also at higher risk.

Officials recommend limiting outdoor playtime, walking pets during early morning or late evening hours and watching for signs of heat exhaustion. Owners should also test pavement with their hand before walks. When in doubt, experts say, bring pets indoors to cool down. Heat stroke can happen quickly and may be fatal.

The organization also warns about the dangers of leaving pets or children in vehicles. Even on relatively mild days, temperatures inside a parked car can rise to deadly levels within minutes.

Under Arizona’s Good Samaritan Law, anyone who sees a child or pet in a hot car and believes they are in imminent danger should call 911, check whether the vehicle is unlocked and, if necessary, break a window using no more force than required. They should remain with the child or pet until authorities arrive.

As temperatures climb, asphalt can also pose a threat. Once outdoor temperatures exceed 95 degrees, pavement can cause serious burns to pets’ paws. Officials recommend avoiding hot asphalt, pavement and desert sand, and keeping pets indoors during the hottest parts of the day to prevent serious injuries that may require medical treatment or surgery.

More information about heat safety is available at azhumane.org/nohotdogsaz.