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Humane society joins campaign

The Estevan Humane Society (EHS), along with other shelters across Canada, is partnering with the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) for the #NoHotPets campaign this summer.

The Estevan Humane Society (EHS), along with other shelters across Canada, is partnering with the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) for the #NoHotPets campaign this summer.

“Each year, hundreds of pets die after being left in vehicles in warm weather,” the humane society stated in a news release. “‘I was only going in for a minute’ is not an excuse. Never leave your pet in a hot vehicle.”

The EHS has several tips for people to keep their pets cool this summer. If heat stroke is suspected, prompt veterinary medical attention is vital. Excessive panting and drooling, listlessness or unconsciousness are potential signs of heat stroke in animals.

“In the meantime, wet the fur immediately with lukewarm to cool water, not cold water,” the humane society said. “Bring the pet into the shade and offer drinking water.”

Dogs have a limited ability to sweat, so even a short time spent in a hot environment can be life-threatening. A dog’s normal body temperature is about 39 C, so a temperature of 41 C can be withstood for just a very short time before irreparable brain damage or even death occurs.

“If you can’t take your pets with you when you leave your car, leave them at home where they are safe,” the EHS said.

Owners who choose to leave pets unattended in vehicles, may face charges under the Saskatchewan Animal Protection Act.

The EHS noted parked cars can quickly reach deadly temperatures, even on relatively mild days with the car parked in the shade and the windows slightly open.

Every year the SPCAs across Canada receive hundreds of reports of pets being left in cars, and the EHS believes it’s imperative that each animal owner be responsible in providing the proper care for pets.

As such, leaving a pet unattended in a vehicle is one of the most irresponsible things a pet owner can do.

The EHS urges anyone who spots a pet left in a vehicle to contact local law enforcement.

They can also visit www.nohotpets.ca and take the pledge to keep their pet cool, and post their support on social media using the tag #nohotpets to win prizes.