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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — With temperatures at their hottest thus far this year, Dr. Jonathan Austin, DVM wants to make sure pet owners work to keep their pets safe."We need to remember that our pets don't handle hot temperatures well, especially dogs who are used to being indoors," Austin said. "You need to be cautious with them in the sun and in the heat. They need shade, they need water, certainly, fresh cool water."Check water bowls often, even for those outside pets that may be more used to the weather."Minimum twice a day, if your water bowl is outside, or your source is outside," Austin said. "What if the pet tips it over? What if something else comes and drains the bowl?"Also, going in and out from the heat to air conditioning can be hard on small pets in particular."If your pet is a short-haired, little skinny chihuahua or whatever and you've got your air conditioner cranked down, they may need to wear a sweater, even though it's actually 100 degrees outside," Austin said. "The transitions between 100 degrees outdoors and a 72 degree home are going to be a little bit challenging for us and for them."If you have further questions about pet care in the heat, call your veterinarian for details.

Vet: Be cautious with pets in hot weather