MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — The Monongalia County Dog Warden, Dana Johnson, wants residents to be mindful of their pets during this multi-day heatwave.
With the issuance of a heat advisory by the National Weather Service in response to what will be almost five straight days of heat indexes reaching or getting close to 100 degrees, Johnson discussed some safety tips on WAJR’s Talk of the Town to keep your pet safe amidst the hot weather. This included an emphasis on making sure that no owner travels with their dog unless they intend on taking them inside a cool place, not to leave them in a car for any period of time, or to take them on walks during the middle of the day.
“It’s a horrible idea, no matter what you are doing, even if you can allow your vehicle to run while you’re in a parking lot,” said Johnson on the importance of having your pets in a controlled cool area at all times. “Your pet should never be left alone unless it is in a controlled environment like your home with an air conditioner.”
According to Johnson, any pet owner who intends to leave their home for work is best advised to have the air conditioning set to room temperature or cooler. For anyone who will be at home and plans on walking their dog during the day, keep the distances minimal with a chance to seek some sort of shade at some point to keep both their paws and their skin cool. She also added that if your dog shows any signs that the heat is becoming too much for them, immediately take them inside.
“You know, if you go out safely and walk your dog, you’re fine,” said Johnson. “If you know the signs that your dog may be showing, like excessive panting and difficulty breathing.”
Another suggestion given for Monongalia County pet owners is to make sure water is around them at all times. This is emphasized for anyone taking their dog outside, with Johnson advising them to bring a bottle of water if they intend on making any day trips with their pet. For anyone leaving them at home for the day, a full bowl of water is recommended before you leave for the day with the air conditioning on.
“Having water readily available (is important) for them; they have to have that in this heat all the time,” said Johnson. “They have to have water all the time, access to water all the time, and if you’re walking your dog, take a bottle of water.”
Johnson also emphasized to pet owners, particularly for dogs, to be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion before it’s too late to take action. This includes labored breathing, intense drooling, and skin discoloration around their mouth that would show signs of intense dehydration. With the heatwave expected to continue, even with intervals of rain expected over the next several days, Monongalia County pet owners are asked to use caution in keeping their furry friends safe and cool during the day.
“If you know the signs that your dog may be showing, like excessive panting, difficulty breathing, and pale gums, sometimes they even become agitated,” said Johnson, offering signs to watch out for if your dog shows signs of heat exhaustion. “And restless because their heart rates go up.”