Santa Barbara, Calif. – With the summer heat intensifying across the Central Coast, local animal‑welfare group CARE4PAWS is issuing a timely reminder to families: protect your pets from overheating. The organization’s guidance is aimed at helping owners keep their beloved companions safe while they enjoy outdoor activities.
Keep Pets Indoors or in the Shade
Pets can become overheated quickly, especially when left outside during the hottest part of the day. CARE4PAWS advises owners to keep animals inside the home or in well‑shaded areas whenever possible. If a pet must be outdoors, ensure there is ample shade and fresh water available at all times.
Limit Walks and Exercise During Peak Temperatures
When temperatures rise, limiting walks and vigorous exercise is essential. The group suggests scheduling walks for early morning or late evening when the air is cooler. Shorter, slower strolls reduce the risk of heat‑related illness while still providing needed exercise.
Watch Out for Hot Pavement
Hot pavement can burn a pet’s paws in minutes. CARE4PAWS recommends testing the ground with the back of your hand before heading out. If the surface feels too hot for a human hand, it is likely too hot for a pet’s paws. Choosing cooler times of day or walking on grass can prevent painful burns.
Never Leave Animals in Parked Vehicles
Even a short stay in a parked car can become dangerous. Interior temperatures can climb rapidly, turning a vehicle into an oven. CARE4PAWS stresses that pets should never be left alone in a car, regardless of the outside temperature or how brief the stop may be.
Recognize Signs of Overheating
Owners should be vigilant for symptoms such as excessive panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, or difficulty breathing. If any of these signs appear, move the animal to a cooler area immediately and seek veterinary care. Prompt action can be lifesaving.
Plan Ahead for a Safe Summer
Families are encouraged to incorporate heat‑precaution measures into their daily routines. Providing a cool, safe space for pets—whether indoors with fans or in a shaded patio—helps ensure that animals remain comfortable throughout the heat wave.
CARE4PAWS’ outreach underscores the broader community responsibility to safeguard all members, human and animal alike, during extreme weather. By following these simple steps, Santa Barbara residents can enjoy the summer while keeping their four‑legged friends safe and healthy.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
