LANCASTER, Pa. — The Lancaster County District Attorney's Office on Wednesday warned residents about the dangers of leaving dogs tied outside during extreme heat after multiple enforcement agencies and the Pennsylvania SPCA received calls about animals suffering from exposure this week.
One dog died after being found outside in the City of Lancaster, and another is recovering from heat exposure after being found tied outside in Manheim Township, the DA's Office said in a press release.
Authorities said the dog found in Lancaster was euthanized after it was found in an alley and taken for emergency veterinary care. The dog found in Manheim Township is recovering, according to the DA's Office.
In addition to being dangerous for the dogs, leaving them outside in the heat for long amounts of time "is a chargeable offense," the DA's Office said. "The law states that dogs must have access to water and shade when outdoors. When the temperature is above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, dogs may not be tethered outside for longer than 30 minutes.
Here are some of the signs of heat stroke in dogs:
- Excessive panting
- Excessive drooling
- Weakness/lethargy
- Vomiting
- Unsteady gait or strolling
- Diarrhea
- Deep red or purple tongue/gums
- Glazed-over eyes
"If you notice any of these symptoms, move your pet indoors immediately," the DA's Office said. "Avoid putting them directly into a cold area as going from extremes can be harmful. Give them small amounts of water at a time and immediately call your veterinarian or seek emergency medical treatment."
Pets should never be left unsupervised in a car, especially during the summer months, even with the windows cracked, the DA's Office said. Pet owners are also advised to keep animals off of hot pavements during extremely hot days.
"If it’s too hot for bare feet it’s too hot for bare paws," the DA's Office said. "Consider taking your dogs for walks either early in the morning or later in the evening, not in the middle of the day."
