Blistering weather is a hazard for pets

Superintendent Ralph Cagigal watches a water pump causing problems at Westwood Golf Course. BY STEVE SISNEY, THE OKLAHOMAN

•Provide access to cool, clean water throughout the day.

•Give the pet a shaded or sheltered area to use if it must be kept outdoors.

•Do not leave pets in the car, even with the windows cracked.

•Fill up a baby pool to let the pets cool themselves off when they need to.

If pets are left uncared for in the heat, it could lead to heat-stroke or even death, city animal field specialist Rodney Pesch said.

Symptoms to watch for include unusual breathing, fast heartbeat, vomiting and red patches on the tongue or abdomen.

If owners are concerned about their pet's well-being, they should take the animal to a veterinarian immediately, he said.

He will speak with pet owners about protecting their pets from summertime heat during an event from 10 a.m. to noon today at the Oklahoma City Animal Shelter, 2811 SE 29.