Pet Heat Safety Tips from Sacramento and Sheridan Shelters

Front Street Animal Shelter in Sacramento warned that hot weather can quickly cause heat‑related illness in dogs and cats. Public information coordinator Andrea Haverland advised owners to keep pets in shade or air‑conditioned spaces, provide fresh water, avoid leaving animals in vehicles, and check pavement temperature before walks. She also listed signs of heatstroke such as heavy panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting and seizures.

Marian Eccles, director of the Unleashed Foundation and representative of the Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter, echoed similar advice, adding that large water tubs for paw soaking, walking on grass or dirt instead of asphalt, and scheduling outings for early morning or evening can help keep dogs cool. Both shelters emphasized never leaving pets unattended in cars, as interior temperatures can rise dramatically within minutes.