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Heat & Air Quality Harmful to Pets and People

August 31, 2022

Los Angeles, CA — The City of Los Angeles Emergency Management Department has advised an excessive heat warning and ozone advisory August 31 – September 5, 2022. Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (spcaLA) urges all pet companions to take preventative measures to protect their pets during this and future heatwaves.

small black dog standing in blue kiddie pool

A kiddie pool is a great way to cool off. Video available.

Protect your pets:

  • Water to prevent dehydration: Plenty of clean, cool drinking water is a must at all times.
  • Protection from the sun: Keep pets inside where it is cool. If, due to an extenuating circumstance, your pet must be outside, make sure they have well-ventilated shelter away from the sun and plenty of water in a tip-proof bowl.
  • Emergency Care: If a pet is overcome by heat (detected by excessive panting, is heavily salivating, and/or immobile) immerse them slowly in cool water to lower their body temperature, then contact a veterinarian. Never immerse a pet in ice cold water, it may cause them shock.
  • Keep Pets Groomed: Clip long or matted coats short to help your pet stay cool. Remember that pets, like people, can get sunburned and coats should not be TOO short.
  • Health Check: Carefully go over your pet’s body at least once a week to check for fleas, ear mites and tiny bumps or cuts. Bring your pet to the vet for a summer check-up and use a good flea and tick repellent recommended by your vet.
  • Fleas: Fleas need to be attacked on three fronts: on the pet, in the home and in the yard.
  • Exercise: Exercise pets in the morning or evening when it’s cooler.
  • Prevent Burns: Dog pads burn easily, so avoid hot surfaces such as asphalt on hot days.
  • Identification: With the hotter weather, families and their pets are outside more often, increasing the chances of a pet getting lost. Make sure your pets always wear proper identification.
  • Park your pet at home: Never leave your pet in a parked car, not even for a minute. It could cost them their life. On a hot day, the temperature in a parked car can soar to 160 degrees within minutes, even with the windows left slightly open.

Cooling centers are available throughout the city, with some allowing pets in carriers. For a list of cooling centers that allow pets, call 311 or visit emergency.lacity.org.