Long weekend heat continues

The extreme heat continues into this Canada Day long weekend. Environment Canada has issued extreme heat warnings as the temperature today in our area soared. This heat can be dangerous not only to us, but to pets as well.

Hamilton EMS says heat stroke is common in weather like this.

A good way to cool down is by going swimming, opt for some shade, and trade in the booze for water.

People are going to be drinking alcohol but it can impair your ability to realize that you are getting warm. It’s a diuretic, so you are going to go to the bathroom more and dehydrate yourself.

If its too hot for you outside, its also too hot for your pets.

Veterinarian Michael Mogavero at the Mohawk Animal Clinic says just like humans, animals will also start to behave differently when they are too hot.

Heat exhaustion is defined when their temperature is between 39 and 41 and the signs that you’ll see are excessive panting, vomiting, diarrhea, and your dog or cat may just lay down and not move.

Vets say, make sure to keep your pet in the shade, have lots of water and if the pavement feels too hot for you, chances are its too hot for your dog.

As always, its never save to leave children or pets in a car, for any period of time.

As troubling as it may sound Hamilton EMS suggests putting something in the back seat with your kids or pets like your cell phone, or groceries as an extra reminder to look in the back and get your loved ones out of the car.