SBC Public Health
By the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department
As temperatures soar during this summer’s heat wave, Santa Barbara County Animal Services is calling on pet owners and animal enthusiasts alike to take proactive measures in safeguarding the well-being of our beloved animals. As the heat rises, so does the risk to our furry companions, making it crucial for the community to come together and ensure their safety.
Pets, just like humans, are susceptible to the dangerous effects of extreme heat, and their well-being can be compromised if proper precautions are not taken. Dogs, cats, and other domestic animals rely on us to provide a safe environment and the necessary care to cope with soaring temperatures.
To ensure the well-being of pets during this heat wave, we strongly encourage the following measures:
-Hydration is Key: Make sure your pets have access to fresh, clean water at all times. Keep their water bowls filled and shaded. Consider placing multiple water stations in different areas of the house or yard.
-Time Your Walks: Avoid walking your pets during the hottest parts of the day. Instead, opt for early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are cooler. If the ground is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws.
-Shade and Shelter: Make sure your pets have access to cool and shaded areas where they can escape from the sun’s relentless rays.
-Never Leave Pets in Vehicles: A parked car can quickly become a furnace, even on a mildly warm day. Never leave your pets unattended in a vehicle, even for a short period.
-Grooming: Regular grooming can help remove excess fur and reduce the risk of heatstroke. However, avoid shaving your pets, as their fur provides insulation against the heat.
-Cool Treats: Offer your pets some refreshing treats, such as ice, frozen fruit, or vegetables, to help them stay cool and hydrated.
-Know the Signs of Heatstroke: Familiarize yourself with the signs of heatstroke in animals, including excessive panting, lethargy, drooling, rapid heartbeat, and vomiting. If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, seek immediate veterinary attention.
By taking these precautionary measures, together, we can help ensure that our furry friends remain safe, healthy, and happy throughout the summer months.
SBCAS emphasizes the importance of community awareness and collective responsibility in safeguarding our animals during this heat wave and will be prioritizing unsheltered pets in distress during this time.
To report a pet experiencing heat related distress, call us toll-free 833-422-8413 and select option 1. For emergencies, dial 9-1-1.
About Santa Barbara County Animal Services: SBCAS is the leading animal welfare organization in Santa Barbara County, caring for over 5,000 pets in their shelters annually, and thousands of families across the community. SBCAS is committed to the health, safety, and welfare of animals and people through proactive intervention, effective enforcement, collaboration, education, and the compassionate care and rehoming of sheltered animals.
Please don’t walk your dogs around with bare paws on 100 degree cement. I see this every summer. Sometimes, it’s best to leave your pooch at home where it’s cool.
Rabbits are at risk of heat stroke when the temperature is above 85 degrees. If you can’t keep them in a cooler place, give them frozen ice bottles. There are no emergency vet hospitals that see rabbits in the Tri County area (!!!!) so prevention is your only option.