Summer Cautions
Heat Safety for Pets
The hot summer days in Imperial County can be dangerous and at times deadly for pets. Take care of and protect your pet from the summer’s heat. Below are safety tips to help protect your pet during summertime.
If your pet has become overheated -take immediate action:
- Move your pet to the shade and apply cool water (not cold) all over its body (spray with a garden hose)
- Apply ice packs or cold towels to your pets head, neck and chest only
- Let you pet drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice cubes
- Contact a veterinarian immediately
- Always keep plenty of fresh water available for your pet. Water should be kept cool and in a shaded area at all times. The container should be large enough and in a place that will prevent spilling. The water should be changed at least once a day.
- Never leave your pet in a car during the summer months. Temperatures in a vehicle can exceed 120°F in a matter of minutes, even with the windows partially open. Your pet can quickly suffer brain damage or die from a heatstroke or suffocation while in a car.
- Avoid excessive exercise during hot weather. Exercise your pet in the early morning or late evening.
- Make sure that your pet has access to a shaded area outside at all times.
- If your pet uses a kennel, keep it well ventilated and positioned in a shaded area to avoid midday sun and heat.
- Install a mister system to help keep you pet cool outside.
- Anxiousness
- Vomiting
- Staggering/Unsteadiness
- Glazed eyes
- Heavy Panting/Collapse
- Deep red or purple tongue
Resources
Contact
Animal Care & Control Office Hours
Monday through Friday from 8 am to 11 am and 12 pm to 5 pm Saturday from 8 am to 12 pm
1329 South Sperber Road, El Centro, CA 92243
(442) 265-2655
icphd-animalcontrol@co.imperial.ca.us
Animal Care & Control Shelter Hours
Monday through Friday from 9 am to 11 am and 12 pm to 3 pm Saturday from 8 am to 12pm
1329 South Sperber Road, El Centro, CA 92243
(442) 265-2655
icphd-animalcontrol@co.imperial.ca.us
Last modified 12/02/2025 at 4:59 PM