Humans aren’t the only creatures affected by Iowa’s heat and humidity…man’s best friend is easily susceptible to heat exhaustion. Iowa Animal Rescue League executive director Tom Colvin says it’s best to keep your dog in the shade. Along with your dog, your pet’s water should also be kept out of the sun. If your pet put on a few pounds over the winter, he or she could be at an even higher risk for heat-related illness. And a dog should never be kept in a car, no matter how short of a stop you are making. Panting is a dog’s way of cooling itself. However — heavy panting, no panting at all, or panting to the point of turning blue are all signs that your pet is in an emergency situation.
