06/30/2026
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for Marion County through Thursday at 8:00 PM, with heat index values that could reach 110°F. These conditions can become life-threatening for both people and pets in just minutes.
Pets are especially vulnerable because they cannot cool themselves the way we do. Even a short walk on hot pavement or a few extra minutes outside can quickly lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
⚠️ Signs of heat stroke in pets:
🥵 Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
💧 Thick, sticky drool
❤️ Bright red or very pale gums
😵 Weakness, stumbling, or collapse
🤢 Vomiting or diarrhea (sometimes with blood)
🫨 Confusion, seizures, or becoming unresponsive
🚑 If you think your pet has heat stroke:
✅ Move them to a cool, shaded, or air-conditioned area immediately.
✅ Wet their body with cool (not ice-cold) water, especially the belly, paw pads, neck, and armpits.
✅ Place a fan on them if available.
✅ Offer small amounts of cool water if they are alert and able to drink.
❌ Do NOT use ice baths or ice water—they can cool the body too quickly and make things worse.
❌ Do NOT wait for them to "cool off" before getting help.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Even if your pet seems to improve after cooling, they should be seen by a veterinarian immediately because internal organ damage can continue after the initial event.
🌡️ Help keep your pets safe this week:
🐾 Walk dogs early in the morning or after sunset.
🐾 Test pavement with the back of your hand for 7 seconds—if it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for paws.
🐾 Always provide fresh, cool water and shade.
🐾 Bring pets indoors during the hottest part of the day.
🐾 Never leave a pet in a parked vehicle. Temperatures inside can become deadly within minutes, even with the windows cracked.
A little extra caution during this heat wave can save a life. Please check on your pets—and your neighbors' pets, too. ❤️🐶🐱
