With a heat advisory in effect for Berkeley County until 8:00pm Tuesday people need to pay close attention to their four-legged friends.Manager at the Berkeley County Humane Society Brandi Bowers says the heat is hard on pets, and could even kill them if steps to protect them are not taken.  Bowers recommends that pet owners change their animal’s water several times a day to keep it cool and make sure that their animals have plenty of food and access to shade.  Indoor pets are also at risk if a house is not air conditioned and will need to have plenty of cool water available to them throughout a hot day.  Bowers says it is important to look for telltale signs of dehydration in pets such as heavy panting, lying on their sides to catch their breath and gently pinching their skin to see if it sticks in place.  All of these are signs your animal needs water and should be cooled down as soon as possible.  Bowers adds that placing a small pool in the yard for dogs to play in or simply giving your pet a bath in cold water are safe ways to keep your furry friends cool in the summer heat.

Categories: Local News
Tags: Bowers, cats, dogs, Heat Advisory, Humane Society, Hydration, pets