Public Service Announcement
GLOBE – As the summer sun intensifies across Gila County, Gila County Animal Care & Control is issuing an urgent reminder to pet owners: protect your animals from the dangers of extreme heat. With temperatures climbing into the triple digits, officials warn that even a short time outdoors can pose serious health risks for pets.
“If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them,” the department stressed in its seasonal safety advisory. Each year, Animal Care & Control responds to multiple calls about animals in distress due to heat exhaustion—many of which are preventable with proper care.
Here’s What Every Pet Owner Should Know:
Never leave pets in a parked vehicle – It only takes minutes for a car’s interior to reach deadly temperatures. On a 100°F-day, a car can heat up to 130°F in just 15 minutes—even with the windows cracked.
Provide shade and fresh water – Outdoor pets must have constant access to clean water, food, and a shady spot to escape the sun.
Avoid midday walks – exercise pets early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures drop, and the pavement is cooler.
Check the ground – Use the five-second rule: If you can’t comfortably hold your hand on the pavement for five seconds, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.
Know the signs of heatstroke – Watch for heavy panting, drooling, extreme tiredness, vomiting, or collapse. If you notice any of these symptoms, get your pet to a veterinarian immediately.
Enforcement Notice:
Gila County Animal Care & Control reminds residents that failure to provide adequate shelter, water, and care for pets during extreme weather is a citable offense under animal cruelty laws. Officers will issue citations if animals are found without basic protection.
“Please don’t wait until it’s too late,” the department urges. “Take a few simple steps to keep your pets safe, comfortable, and healthy this summer.”
For questions, concerns, or to report an animal in distress, contact Gila County Animal Care & Control at 928-425-5882.
Stay safe. Stay cool. Protect those who can’t protect themselves.
