As temperatures in Albuquerque reach or exceed 100 degrees, the Albuquerque Animal Welfare Department (AWD) is urging pet owners to take precautions to protect their animals from heat-related risks.
“Remember your pets are relying on you to keep them safe,” said Animal Welfare Department Captain David Rose. “If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.”
AWD warns that leaving pets in parked cars can be extremely dangerous. Even on an 85-degree day, temperatures inside a car can climb rapidly. Within ten minutes, the temperature can reach 102 degrees and after thirty minutes it may rise to 120 degrees, even if windows are cracked.
Pet owners are also advised to provide shade and fresh water whenever animals are outdoors. According to AWD, a doghouse alone does not offer enough relief from heat and lack of proper shelter and hydration can lead to heatstroke, which may be fatal.
Other recommendations include avoiding walking pets on asphalt during peak heat hours because surfaces become very hot and can burn animal paws. Exercise should be limited during high temperatures and restricted to early morning or evening hours.
AWD suggests using animal-safe sunscreen on exposed skin areas such as ears, nose, and belly—especially for dogs with short or light-colored fur that are more susceptible to sunburn. Pet owners unsure about suitable products should consult their veterinarian.
Recognizing signs of heatstroke is critical. Symptoms include heavy panting, glazed eyes, rapid heartbeat, restlessness, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, deep red or purple tongue, and unconsciousness.
If a pet displays symptoms of heatstroke AWD recommends immediate action: move the animal into shade or an air-conditioned area; apply ice packs or cold towels to the head, neck and chest; run cool (not cold) water over the pet; allow small amounts of cool water or ice cubes; then seek veterinary care immediately.
“By taking simple preventive steps and staying alert to warning signs, we can keep pets safe and healthy throughout the hottest months of the year,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Our animals count on us; let’s be there for them.”
