Be cautious with swimming: Supervise pets when swimming in pools or natural bodies of water. Use life jackets and avoid swimming in strong currents or water that is too cold. Image by Joshua Choate from Pixabay

SACRAMENTO COUNTY, CA (MPG) - Extreme heat waves continue to affect Sacramento County and it's crucial for pet owners to ensure their furry friends stay safe and comfortable. When temperatures rise, pets face increased risks of heat-related illnesses. Here are some essential tips to help your pets beat the heat:

Never leave pets in parked cars: Even on mild days, the temperature inside a parked car can rise rapidly, turning it into a deadly trap. Leaving pets unattended in cars is both dangerous and illegal in California.

Hydrate: Always provide fresh water for your pets to keep them hydrated. If your pet is experiencing a heat-related illness, never give them cold water to drink or soak in. This could shock their system.

Avoid peak heat hours: Schedule walks and outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings or evenings. Hot asphalt and concrete can burn your pet's paw pads, so test the surface with your hand first.

Provide shade and cool environments: Ensure outdoor pets have access to shaded areas and fresh water. Indoors, keep them in air-conditioned rooms or use fans to improve air circulation.

Use sunscreen: Pets with light skin or fur are susceptible to sunburn. Apply pet-safe sunscreen to sensitive areas like their ears and nose.

Be cautious with swimming: Supervise pets when swimming in pools or natural bodies of water. Use life jackets and avoid swimming in strong currents or water that is too cold.

Recognize heatstroke symptoms: Watch for signs like excessive panting, drooling, glazed eyes, rapid pulse, lethargy, vomiting and collapse. If you suspect heatstroke, move your pet to a cool area and seek immediate veterinary attention. Gradual cooling helps stabilize their internal temperature without causing additional stress or shock to their system.

For more hot weather pet tips and to learn how to spot heat-related illnesses in pets, visit the Animal Care Services website at https://animalcare.saccounty.gov/Pages/default.aspx.  

Looking to adopt a pet? Visit the shelter at 3839 Bradshaw Rd. in Sacramento, open Tuesday through Sunday noon to 5 p.m., and Wednesday noon to 6 p.m.

For a list of available animal care services, including walk-in licensing and how to report a lost or found pet, visit the Animal Care Services website.