News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
An Upper Cumberland animal shelter wants pet owners to be mindful of their animals as summer temperatures begin to rise.
Stephanie Smith manages the White County Animal Shelter. She said outdoor pets can suffer the most if owners don’t give proper care.
“Plastic igloo dog houses are great but if they’re not in the shade, the temperatures inside of those dog houses can get upwards of 100 degrees,” Smith said. “So if they could, it’d be great if during the hottest part of the day they could let the dogs stay inside or in a cool garage with fans or something running just to keep them cooled down. But most importantly, they always need to have plenty of cold, fresh water.”
Area residents aren’t the only ones who should be mindful of animals when it comes to the heat. Smith said the shelter itself is prepared to help keep its animals protected from rising temperatures.
“I have about 15, 16 fans that are constantly running. I’ve got overhead fans to keep the fans circulating,” Smith said. “Of course, we always make sure they have plenty of fresh water to drink. We do have them under cover, they are protected from the elements so they aren’t out in the direct sunlight.”
Smith said dog owners who plan to walk their dogs in the heat should think about walking in grassy areas rather than pavement.
“If you put your hand down on the hot asphalt and you can’t hold it there for five seconds, then you shouldn’t be walking your dog on that asphalt because it can burn their little paws pretty quick,” Smith said. “It would be best when it’s really hot like this to do it early in the morning or later on in the evening, and not during the heat of the day.”
According to the National Weather Service, daily high temperatures are expected to reach upwards of 90 degrees through next weekend.
