As hot weather arrives in Western Washington — at least for now — several agencies are reminding us to keep our furry and feathered friends (and other pets) safe.
The Auburn Police Department was one agency that had some tips about how to keep your pet safe.
“Anything over 70° we shouldn’t be bringing our animals with (us in the car). We wanna keep our friends like Archie here safe from heat exhaustion,” Auburn Police Officer Ray Peckham said in a Facebook video.
The National Weather Service in Seattle tweeted some tips as well.
The first echoes the message from Auburn police: Never leave your pets in a hot car. According to Seattle Humane, parking in the shade with the windows cracked isn’t enough. It’s easy to get distracted and leave our pets in the car longer than intended.
Heat stroke develops quickly and can lead to organ failure and even death.
You should also watch out for hot pavement, as asphalt can burn pets’ paws.
It’s best to limit your pet’s exercise outdoors, and in general, keep them inside.
If they have to be outside, be sure they have plenty of shade and access to water at all times.