As Michigan summer settles in, pet-owners are being reminded to take precautions to protect their animals from the heat.
Gratiot County Animal Shelter is keeping animals safe by providing them with access to cool water, air conditioning and shade from the sun. Shelter Officer Blair Woodgate said pet-owners should do the same.
“Go early in the morning or late at night to take your animal for a walk: Do not do it in the heat of the day,” Woodgate said.
She said you should avoid taking your animal outside from 12-4 p.m. If you choose to take a walk during that time, it should be limited to 10 or 15 minutes. She said you can protect their paws from hot cement by walking in grassy areas.
Experts also strongly advise pet owners to not leave their dogs in the car, even if the windows are cracked. Woodgate said that if you see an animal inside of a locked car, you should do what you can to help them.
“If it's an individual parking lot, try to find the owner or talk to the store manager and make an announcement,” she said.
If you can't find the owner, Woodgate said to call animal control or central dispatch to ensure the pets safety.