How to keep pets cool during a heat wave
The BC SPCA is out with a reminder not to forget about the impact soaring temperatures can have on pets as a heat warning is in effect for the Lower Mainland.
Vancouver branch manager Jodi Dunlop says the first and most important piece of advice she has is never to leave animals in cars.
"Do not bring your pet shopping with you. It is far too hot. Leaving a dog or a cat–more often than not it's a dog– in your car during the heat wave is unacceptable," she says.
"Dogs can die within 10 minutes being left in a car or suffer irreparable brain damage. Please, just leave your animals at home. They'll be healthy and happy there."
She urges anyone who does see an animal left alone in a vehicle to report it immediately to either the local police department or to the SPCA hotline.
Another tip for dog-owners is to adjust their timing of daily walks. Dunlop says early morning or evening is best because the pavement gets so hot during the day that it can quickly scald their sensitive paw pads.
Certain pets, she explains, have more difficulty cooling themselves than others. Bulldogs, frenchies, Persian cats and other "smush-faced" breeds all might need a little extra help and attention from their humans. This can include purchasing a cooling scarf or making one at home by dampening a towel with cool water.
Dunlop also says although the heat is cause for concern, there are a few fun options for keeping them cool, like setting up an inflatable kiddie pool or running the sprinkler for dogs.
Frozen treats, she says, are something dogs, cats and even smaller pets like rabbits and guinea pigs can enjoy. Mixing some food with water, mashing it up and freezing it in an ice cube tray is Dunlop's recommended recipe.
"Kids love freezies and popsicles, so do animals," Dunlop says.
During last year's deadly heat dome, Dunlop says SPCA branches received a lot of reports about animals in distress. The organization also had to close the branches that don't have air conditioning so staff could focus full time on keeping the creatures in their care comfortable.
"We have to remember they don't sweat like we do, so it is very difficult for them when it is hot. We have to first and foremost think of them, keep them cool."
More tips and information can be found on the BC SPCA website.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Doctors ask Liberal government to reconsider capital gains tax change
The Canadian Medical Association is asking the federal government to reconsider its proposed changes to capital gains taxation, arguing it will affect doctors' retirement savings.
Keeping these exotic pets is 'cruel' and 'dangerous,' Canadian animal advocates say
Canadian pet owners are finding companionship beyond dogs and cats. Tigers, alligators, scorpions and tarantulas are among some of the exotic pets they are keeping in private homes, which pose risks to public safety and animal welfare, advocates say.
Prince William and wife Kate thank public for birthday messages for son Louis
Prince William and his wife Kate thanked the public for their messages which had been sent to mark the sixth birthday of their youngest son Louis on Tuesday.
She was the closest she'd ever been to meeting her biological father. Then life dealt her a blow
Anne Marie Cavner was the closest she'd ever been to meeting her biological father, but then life dealt her a blow. From an unexpected loss to a host of new relationships, a DNA test changed her life, and she doesn't regret a thing.
How quietly promised law changes in the 2024 federal budget could impact your day-to-day life
The 2024 federal budget released last week includes numerous big spending promises that have garnered headlines. But, tucked into the 416-page document are also series of smaller items, such as promising to amend the law regarding infant formula and to force banks to label government rebates, that you may have missed.
RCMP uncovers plot to sell drones and equipment to Libya
The RCMP says it has uncovered a ploy to sell Chinese drones and military equipment to Libya illegally.
Which foods have the most plastics? You may be surprised
'How much plastic will you have for dinner, sir? And you, ma'am?' While that may seem like a line from a satirical skit on Saturday Night Live, research is showing it's much too close to reality.
'Catch-and-kill' strategy to be a focus as testimony resumes in Trump hush money case
A veteran tabloid publisher was expected to return to the witness stand Tuesday in Donald Trump's historic hush money trial.
Quebec farmers have been protesting since December. Is anyone listening?
Upset about high interest rates, growing paperwork and heavy regulatory burdens, protesting farmers have become a familiar sight across Quebec since December.