The Heat Is On, Don't Leave Pets Unattended Inside Cars

Anticipating a rise in temperatures later this week, authorities today reminded Southlanders not to leave their pets unattended in hot vehicles.

"The temperature inside a vehicle can rise 20 to 30 degrees above the
outside temperature in a matter of minutes, putting your pet at risk if left in
the car on a warm day,'' said Marcia Mayeda, director of the County of Los
Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control.

Temperatures are expected to range between the low to upper 90s in Cerritos and Artesia between Wednesday and Thursday, according to local weather reports.

"If you like to take your pet with you while running errands or when
you travel, make sure you can bring your pet with you when you exit the
vehicle,'' Mayeda said.

Mayeda noted that dogs have limited means to cool themselves and can be
overcome by heat exhaustion in just a few minutes.

Mayeda urged people to call their local animal control agency if they see a pet locked in a car on a warm day. If the animal appears to be in immediate danger, however, people should call 911, she said.

Mayeda offered the following safety tips:

• Always use a safety harness when traveling with a dog in a vehicle.
• Bring water and a travel bowl for dogs and cats to keep them hydrated while traveling.
• Never leave pets inside a vehicle, even if parked in the shade or with the windows left cracked open.
• Limit strenuous activity during the warmer hours of the day.
• And always have plenty of fresh cool water available for your pets and a place to escape the heat while at home.

More information is available on the website www.animalcare.lacounty.gov

- City News Service