The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development or MDARD is reminding owners on some of the best ways to keep animals cool and safe.
In a news release, State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM, says quote "When temperatures rise, keeping animals cool and hydrated is essential to their overall health," she adds, "While it is important to recognize the signs of heat stress in animals, it is even more critical to prevent this stress from occurring. Michiganders can follow six easy steps to help keep animals cool and safe." End quote.
Those steps and tips include proving unlimited cool, clean, and fresh water; know your pets limits: age, breed, coat type can play a role in their ability to tolerate the heat. Test surfaces to make sure they wont burn paws. Avoid harmful algae blooms in bodies of water, make sure animals have a place to cool down and experts say parked vehicles are not places to park your pets.
MDARD says following these tips can help keep your animals in good shape during this and any heatwave.
