The dog days of summer are here again, and forecasts predict it could be hotter and drier than usual this year. With last summer among the hottest on record and heat domes becoming more common in the Pacific Northwest, it’s essential to be prepared. But summer safety goes beyond just heat. Here’s how to keep your pets safe all season long.

Pets in Hot Cars

Did you know that on an 85°F day, a parked car can reach 120°F in under 30 minutes? Cracked windows or shade simply don’t provide enough relief, and even an air-conditioned car can be risky if pets are confined in carriers. On hot days, leave pets safely at home.

If you see a pet in a hot car:

• Quickly record the vehicle’s make, model, and license plate.
• Ask nearby businesses to help locate the owner.
• If you cannot find the owner, call 311 or your local Animal Control.
• If the pet is in clear distress (heavy panting, discolored tongue, collapse), call 911.

Thinking of breaking a window? Know the law: in Washington, only law enforcement or animal control officers are legally protected when breaking into a vehicle to rescue a pet. You could face legal or financial penalties, and a panicked dog could also pose a risk of injury.

Hot Pavement

Pavement, sidewalks, and even sand can get dangerously hot. Remember: if it’s too hot for your bare hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

• Walk pets early in the morning or late in the evening.
• Choose grassy or dirt paths whenever possible.
• Bring water and take frequent breaks.

Watch for burned paw pads: limping, licking feet, redness, blisters, or missing skin. Flush burned pads gently with cool water and contact your vet right away.

Heatstroke in Pets

Signs of heatstroke include heavy panting, glazed eyes, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, collapse, or seizures.

If you suspect heatstroke:

• Move your pet to a shaded or air-conditioned spot.
• Apply cool (not ice-cold) wet towels to their head, neck, and chest.
• Offer cool water.
• Seek veterinary care immediately.

Senior pets, overweight pets, and flat-faced breeds (like pugs, bulldogs, and Persians) are especially at risk. Limit their activity in hot weather and monitor them closely.

Other Summer Hazards

Summer fun comes with a few more things to watch for:

• Foxtails (grass awns): These barbed seeds can burrow into your pet’s skin, causing infections and abscesses. Mow your lawn, avoid tall grasses, and check your dog’s coat after walks.

• Parasites: Fleas, ticks, and heartworm thrive in summer. Talk with your vet about prevention.

• Outdoor adventures: Hikes, beach trips, and backyard BBQs mean more chances for your pet to slip away. Ensure your pet is licensed and microchipped so you can be reunited if they go missing.

Stay safe and have a fantastic summer with your pets!

When we asked for help, you delivered in the most incredible way.

After unexpectedly taking in 53 cats and kittens from a large RV rescue, we knew we needed our community’s support. In an effort to quickly create enough space for the felines, we launched a three-day, fee-waived adoption event at our Vancouver Campus.

The response? Nothing short of amazing.

Thanks to your support, 101 cats and kittens found loving homes over a three-day adoption event, making space for the new arrivals who so badly needed our help. On top of that, we received an astounding 60 foster volunteer applications to care for pets until they can be adopted.

Thanks to this outpouring of kindness, we were able to:

• Open up space in our shelter to take in the new arrivals.
• Begin administering critical medical treatment, including care for upper respiratory infections and other issues.
• Start prepping more cats for adoption through spay/neuter surgeries and vaccinations.

This is a critical Kitten Season, and we’re so grateful for the generosity of our community. You stepped up when it mattered most, and because of you, 101 lives were changed in one weekend.

If you haven’t yet had the chance and would like to support these animals and others still in our care, you can make a gift to help cover medical treatments, food, and essential care.

Donate  

Thank you for your support and for helping us work towards a community where everyone loves and cares for animals.