- By Kerry Barnes, SPCA
- Around Town
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Erratic Ithaca Weather High Humidity Requires Extra Care
Ithaca. Although the weather in Tompkins County can be unpredictable, the recent span of humid weather can have a detrimental effect on pets, particularly dogs in cars or chained outside. Pets can suffer brain damage, heat stroke or even death.
To protect your pets, the TC SPCA urges all pet owners to:
a. Make sure dogs and other pets have access to shade.
b. Make sure there is plenty of cool, fresh water to drink.
c. Do not leave older pets, pets with health problems, or short-nosed dogs like pugs outside in the heat.
But most of all, do not leave your dog unattended in a parked car. Temperatures in a parked car can quickly reach over 120 degrees, even with the windows partially open.
The following signs are association with heat stress: heavy panting, glazed eyes, vomiting, staggering or unsteady gait, rapid pulse, or deep red/purple tongue. If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms, you must lower her body temperature immediately by:
a. Getting her in the shade and applying cool water (not ice) all over her body
b. Letting her drink small amounts of water
c. Contacting your local veterinarian for care and treatment
If residents see an animal trapped in a hot car, they are asked to telephone the Tompkins County SPCA at 257-1822.