DONATE
High heat and humidity can be life threatening for pets, too. Local ordinances are specific when it comes to taking care of dogs in extreme heat.
High heat and humidity can be life threatening for pets, too.
Friends of Indianapolis Dogs Outside (FIDO) founder Darcie Kurtz said local ordinances are specific when it comes to taking care of dogs in extreme heat.
“When the temperatures are at 90 degrees or above, dogs can’t be left outside in this heat, so they need to be brought inside a temperature-controlled building and that’s defined as being kept between 40 and 80 degrees,” Kurtz said.
Outside dogs also need shade such as a tarp or tree canopy and must have access to fresh, cool water at all times.
Kurtz said dogs in distress can be reported to Indianapolis Animal Care Services through Request Indy or the Mayor’s Action Center at 317-327-4622.
Signs of heat stroke in a dog include excessive panting and agitation, drooling, glazed eyes, weakness, staggering and rapid pulse.
Anyone having difficulty caring for their dog can call FIDO for help at (317) 221-1314.
More on Marion County’s basic animal care and treatment requirements is available online.
Contact WFYI Morning Edition newscaster and reporter Taylor Bennett at tbennett@wfyi.org. Follow on Twitter: @TaylorB2213.
Support WFYI. We can't do it without you.