(WWJ) - An excessive heat wave lifting into Michigan will make temperatures feel like 105 degrees on Wednesday, but we aren't the only ones who will feel the soaring temperatures — our pets will be susceptible to the high heat as well.
Dr. Jenna Corbett with the Animal Emergency Center in Novi told WWJ's Dan Jenkins that in hot weather, it is important to take care of our dogs who are at risk for a number of heat-related issues.
"They do not tolerate heat well," Corbett said of all dogs, however the doctor said certain breeds with flatter faces and noses, such as the Boston Terrier and French Bulldog, have more difficulty cooling off in warmer weather.
A dog's internal body temperature naturally runs between n 101 and 102 degrees. When exposed to hot weather — such as in a parked car — their body temperature soars to dangerous levels. Dogs can only withstand high temperatures for a short period of time before their condition reaches critical and irreparable organ and brain damage or death can occur.
"Dogs can overheat pretty quickly," Corbett told Jenkins. "If you do notice anything like red gums, panting excessively, collapse, anything like that, you definitely want to get [to a vet] as fast as possible."
The veterinarian said pet owners can help combat heat-related illnesses in their animals by keeping pets inside in air conditioning, having fresh water available at all times and not walking them during the day.
A nice day to start, but by noon it’s going to be hot, hotter and hottest! Be sure to check on neighbors and older relatives throughout the day. Make sure you do not leave pets in the car at all and outside for limited amounts of time. Be nice out there! pic.twitter.com/cqBr6liCUA
"Its amazing how hot asphalt and even concreate can get which can cause severe burns and ulcerations on their pads," Corbett said. "If you can't hold your own hand to the concrete for more than a couple of seconds, it is too hot for the dogs to be walking on it."
The Michigan Humane Society also offers the following tips for pet owners to keep their furry family members safe in Wednesday's extreme heat and humidity:
• Never leave a dog or other animal in a parked car. Unlike humans, dogs do not perspire to cool their bodies down - they pant. When the air they breathe is overheated, their body temperature can rise quickly to a dangerous level. On an 85-degree day, even with the windows cracked, the temperature inside the car can reach 120 degrees in a matter of minutes, leaving the animal susceptible to heat stroke or death.
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• Bring companion animals inside. If they must be left outdoors for any length of time, adequate shade and a supply of fresh, cool water is essential. However, when temperatures and humidity soar, even these precautions may not be enough.
• If your dog is experiencing rapid panting and lethargy and has been subjected to extreme temperatures, he may be suffering from heat exhaustion.
• If your dog is overcome by heat, you can give immediate first aid by immersing him in cool water. If you are unable to immerse him, lay him on cool, shaded grass, pour cold water over him and call your veterinarian immediately.
• Limit strenuous activity with your dog such as jogging or taking long walks to the early morning or evening hours. Make sure he has access to water before, during and after this activity.
• Warm weather activities and gatherings can provide many opportunities for a companion animal to slip out a door or gate and become lost. All dogs and cats should wear a collar and ID tag at all times. A form of permanent identification such as a microchip is also recommended should the animal slip out of his collar.
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The Animal Emergency Center of Novi is located on Novi Road just North of 10 Mile Road. Corbett said pet owners who are concerned about potential heat-related illness with their pets are welcome to call the clinic for further assistance at 1-877-AEC-4-PET.
If you believe your pet is experiencing an emergency, Corbett said to immediately take your animal to the nearest animal urgent care center for medical help.