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PRESS RELEASE
RELEASE DATE: Immediately (June 20, 2006)
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Gene Baierschmidt
(801) 261-2919 ex. 202 - office

DEAD IN MINUTES! - HUMANE SOCIETY WARNS OF POTENTIAL EFFECTS OF HEAT ON ANIMALS IN PARKED CARS

In response to the recent death of a dog left inside a closed pickup truck, the Humane Society of Utah is repeating its warning to pet owners to protect their animals from exposure to the searing summer heat. Officials again stress how rapidly temperatures in a parked car, even with the windows partially open, can become deadly for animals inside the vehicle.

According to HSU Executive Director Gene Baierschmidt, leaving a dog in a parked car, even in the shade and with partial ventilation, is a mistake. "You’re risking your animal’s life when you leave her in the car when ambient temperatures exceed 80°F, even if you’re only going to be in a store for a few minutes," he says, citing figures from a recent study. Research has indicated the following exponential relationship between the passage of time and the rise in temperature in a vehicle parked in a 78° environment:

Length of Time Temperature in Vehicle

5 minutes 90°

25 minutes 110°

When the outside temperature was 90°, the results were even more pronounced:

Length of Time Temperature in Vehicle

15 minutes 113°

30 minutes 122°

180 minutes 160°

The primary danger to pets in high temperatures like these is heatstroke. Symptoms include rapid panting, heavy salivation, vomiting, an anxious or staring expression, fast pulse rate, and high body temperature. These conditions can lead to brain damage and death.

The best treatment for heatstroke is, of course, prevention - never take a pet with you in the car if he or she will be left unattended for any period of time. If an animal should exhibit symptoms of heat exhaustion, immerse his body in cool (not cold) water or pour cool water over him and, If possible, place him in front of a small fan immediately afterward. Ice packs can also be placed on the animal’s head. As soon as the animal stabilizes, take him to the veterinarian for treatment.

If a pet is left outside on warm days, remember to provide protection from the sun and free access to plenty of cool drinking water. Check on the temperature of the water frequently, since it may become actually too hot for the animal to drink it. Strenuous activity and excitement should be avoided on warm days. When away from home, always carry water with you on hot days and give your pet small amounts frequently.

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