Heat poses risks for Oklahoma pets, too
CARRIE COPPERNOLL
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Published: June 24, 2009
High temperatures and humidity can be just as dangerous for animals as people, a veterinary leader in Oklahoma said.
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What the law says
When animal welfare officers find a pet suffering from heat stroke, the owners are allowed to take the animal for medical care, Gary said. If the pet is too sick, officers impound it.
City ordinances require pets to have food, water and shelter — needs that are particularly important in the heat. Many times, officers allow pet owners to remedy the situation, but owners who fail to provide the necessities can be ticketed or charged.
Animal welfare workers aren’t the only ones responding to calls about overheated animals. Last week, a woman in northeast Oklahoma called 911 to report her dog had heat stroke, Emergency Medical Services Authority spokeswoman Tina Wells said. The dispatcher gave the caller some general advice and then referred her to an animal agency.
"It’s a great idea as a pet owner to keep an emergency veterinarian number close at hand,” Wells said, "because 911 is designed for people.”
Related Topics:
Health and Fitness, Pets, Special Interest Groups, Weather, Animal Rights, Veterinary Medicine, Health Tips, Safety and First Aid
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