The extreme heat impacts pets as well.
HERRIN, Ill. (WSIL)-- Your furry friends may also be feeling the effects of this hot weather.
Officials with the Central Hospital for Animals say people should make sure they are limiting their pet's time outside.
They say this kind of heat can be dangerous for them, especially if they are being very active.
Leahanne Nuss is a veterinary technician with Central Hospital. She says pet owners should make sure they are paying attention to how their animals are behaving.
“A lot of people get outside to play ball and Frisbee with their dogs,� Nuss says. “Which is fine, but you just want to pay attention, give your dog plenty of breaks, and drinks just like you would.�
She says if your dog becomes overheated, like showing signs of lethargy or difficulty breathing, you should immediately seek veterinary help. She says on the route to the vet, there are certain things pet owners can do to help.
“You want to move them to a cooler spot. A lot of times you can use not cold water, but cooler water, you know, kind of wet their paws and maybe get a damp towel and put it over them with a fan to help try to bring down their temp until you can get them into veterinary care,� Nuss said.
Nuss says if you have an outdoor cat, make sure to provide them with plenty of shade and water also.
