After 2 dogs die in hot cars, pet owners warned of dangerous heat
WESTMINSTER, Colo. (KDVR) — Westminster Animal Management is warning pet owners to be careful over the next three days as 100-degree temperatures are expected.
Westminster has seen the deaths of two dogs left in hot cars, where it can be 20 degrees hotter than the outside temperature. Heat stroke in dogs is a major killer, so it is something animal officers are focusing on this weekend.
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Westminster Animal Management officers like Olivia Coolman hope pet parents have plans.
“Even just walking your dog — I know it’s hard to do because dogs love to be outside. The best thing is to keep them indoors in the AC,” she said.
Pet sitters like Paul Flynn, whom FOX31 met at Westminster Hill Open Area Dog Park, do have a plan.
“You have to keep them out of the sun. There are a lot of trails I know that are in the woods, so on the super hot days, I try to find some shade,” Flynn said.
Under Colorado law regarding dogs in hot cars, people who see a dog in distress in a car can take matters into their own hands to try and save the animal.
Prepare to recognize signs of heat stroke in dogs
Officers recommend that dog owners be familiar with the signs of heat stroke, which include excessive panting, vomiting and sneezing. They are also urged to take into consideration the dog’s breed, type of fur and age.
It will be important to have water on hand for animals no matter the length of time spent outside.
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Westminster Animal Management is also prepared for any rescue that may be needed over the high-temperature days.
“We’re mentally preparing ourselves every day. We have been trying to focus on making sure our cars are stocked up with water, tools that we can use to dampen towels and things if we have to take a dog out of a car,” Coolman said. “Just making sure that we have the resources needed to make sure we can save a dog.”
Denver, Colorado weather resources
Stay prepared for storms and forecast changes, a Pinpoint Weather Alert Day and other important weather information:
The Pinpoint Weather team will continue to update the forecast multiple times each day.
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