NEW JERSEY — With summer temperatures soaring, the American Red Cross is reminding pet owners across New Jersey to take precautions to protect their animals from dangerous heat-related conditions.
Heat stroke is a serious threat for pets, particularly for dogs with short snouts like bulldogs and boxers, overweight animals, those with thick coats, or pets with upper respiratory conditions. Signs of heat stroke include heavy panting that does not subside when lying down, bright red gums, a fast pulse, and difficulty standing.
Pet owners who suspect heat stroke are advised to check the animal’s temperature rectally. If it exceeds 104 degrees, they should immediately begin cooling the pet with water—such as from a garden hose—and stop when the temperature reaches 103 degrees. Prompt veterinary care is essential, as heat stroke can cause severe organ damage.
To help keep pets safe during extreme heat, the Red Cross recommends:
- Ensuring pets have ample fresh water and shade.
- Exercising pets regularly but cautiously in hot weather.
- Keeping up with annual checkups and vaccinations, especially rabies.
- Keeping dogs leashed outdoors to avoid confrontations with other animals.
- Learning pet CPR and basic first aid in case of emergencies.
The Red Cross encourages pet owners to download the free Pet First Aid app, which includes emergency instructions, a medical profile feature, toxic substance guides, and a veterinarian locator. The app can be downloaded by texting GETPET to 90999, searching “American Red Cross” in app stores, or visiting redcross.org/apps.
Additionally, owners can take the Cat and Dog First Aid online course at redcross.org/catdogfirstaid to learn vital signs monitoring, first aid techniques like CPR and wound care, and preventive health tips. The interactive course can be completed at your own pace on desktop or tablet.
For more tips on keeping humans safe in the heat, the Red Cross advises visiting redcross.org for additional resources.
