Our Opinion: Excessive heat also a danger for pets

Missourians are advised to take precautions during this heat advisory, but high temperatures also are a danger for pets.

Previously in this forum, we have encouraged people to check on their neighbors and never leave children in vehicles during extreme heat.

With temperatures expected to reach 100 degrees during the excessive heart warning until 7 p.m. Saturday night, animal welfare groups also are issuing a caution to pet owners.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) offers these reminders:

Pets can get dehydrated quickly, so give them plenty of fresh, clean water when it's hot or humid outdoors. Make sure pets have a shady place, be careful not to over-exercise them and keep them indoors when it's extremely hot.

Never leave animals alone in a parked vehicle.

Know the symptoms of overheating in pets, which include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, stupor or even collapse.

Animals with flat faces, like Pugs and Persian cats, are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively. These pets, along with the elderly, the overweight, and those with heart or lung diseases, should be kept cool in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible.

Don't leave pets unsupervised around a pool - not all dogs are good swimmers. Rinse dogs after swimming to remove chlorine and try to keep dogs from drinking pool water, which contains chlorine and other chemicals.

Open unscreened windows pose a real danger to pets, who often fall out of them. Keep all unscreened windows or doors in your home closed, and make sure adjustable screens are tightly secured.

Trimming longer hair on dogs is acceptable, but never shave a dog. The layers of dogs' coats protect them from overheating and sunburn. Brushing cats more often than usual can prevent problems caused by excessive heat.

When the temperature is very high, don't let dogs linger on hot asphalt. Being so close to the ground, a pet's body can heat up quickly and sensitive paw pads can burn. Keep walks during these times to a minimum.

Protracted heat advisories present challenges for everyone; responsible pet owners face an added responsibility to protect animals from dangerous conditions.

Following the recommendations will help keep your pet safe and comfortable.