UPDATE: LANSING - If you think it's ok to leave your pet in the car while you run errands, you may want to reconsider. The temperature in a car on a warm day can increase rapidly even with all four windows cracked.

Since pets don't sweat, they pant to modify their body temperatures. If they are stuck in a hot car, they will have a very difficult time lowering their body temperature to a safe range. This can lead to heat exhaustion. Just like humans, heat exhaustion effects animals, they will begin to act lethargic and have slower response times. Permanent damage or death can be caused if the animal suffers from heat exhaustion.

Capital Area Humane Society CEO Julia Palmer encourages people to call Animal Control if they see a pet locked in a car. Even a few minutes in a hot car can hurt an animal.

The heat doesn't just effect dogs, cats are at a risk as well. If your cat is panting, acting lethargically or their gums are turning blue, you can help cool their body temperatures by moving them to a cold location like a basement, giving them cold water and wrapping them in a wet towel.

Palmer asks pet owners to keep a close eye on their animals during extreme heat and cold. If the animal's condition doesn't improve rapidly she suggests calling the veterinarian immediately.



ORIGINAL STORY: LANSING - According to the Animal Protection Institute, on a 95 degree day,, the temperature in a car with all four windows cracked can be 133 degrees! Find out how to keep your pet safe during heat waves on Meridian Magazine.