FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Fayette County Animal Control Reminds Pet Owners to Protect Pets and Livestock
FAYETTEVILLE, Ga. — With summer temperatures climbing, Fayette County Animal Control is urging pet owners and livestock managers to take immediate precautions against heat-related illnesses. High temperatures and humidity can become life-threatening for animals in a matter of minutes if proper care is not taken.
"Extreme heat is one of the most dangerous, yet preventable, threats our local animals face during the summer," said Tracy Thompson, Director of Fayette County Animal Control. "Pets and livestock rely entirely on us to keep them safe. A few simple adjustments to your daily routine can literally save an animal's life."
Animal Control officials emphasize that prevention is key to avoiding heat stress and heatstroke:
-
Hydration and Shade: Animals must have continuous access to fresh, cool water placed in shaded areas. Shade from trees, tarps, or well-ventilated shelters is mandatory for outdoor animals to escape direct sunlight. Water troughs for livestock should be inspected regularly.
-
The Dangers of Tethering: Animals should never be tethered or tied unattended outdoors during hot weather. Tethers can easily tangle, preventing an animal from reaching nearby shade or water.
-
Timing Walks and Protecting Paws: Dogs should be walked during the cooler hours of early morning or late evening. Asphalt, concrete, and sand retain heat and can severely burn paw pads. Owners should press the back of their hand against the pavement for seven seconds; if it is too hot for human skin, it is too hot for a dog’s paws.
-
Parked Vehicles Are Off-Limits: Never leave a pet inside a parked vehicle, even for a short duration or with the windows cracked. Temperatures inside a car can spike to lethal levels in minutes.
-
Livestock Management: Work and exercise routines for farm animals should be adjusted to cooler hours. Ensure proper barn ventilation and monitor livestock closely during periods of high humidity.
Certain animals are at a heightened risk, including puppies, kittens, senior pets, overweight animals, and flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds such as bulldogs and pugs. Summer also brings an influx of fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes, making up-to-date parasite prevention vital.
"Owners need to recognize the early warning signs of heat distress before it becomes fatal," Thompson added. "If you see excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, bright red gums, or staggering, move the animal to a cool area immediately and contact a veterinarian."
To cool an overheated animal safely, apply cool—not ice-cold—water or damp towels to their body and offer small amounts of water. During heat advisories, the safest place for pets is indoors in a well ventilated cool area.
About Fayette County Animal Control
The Fayette County Animal Shelter has been dedicated to serving the community for close to 40 years. Our services include assistance to animals with public safety as the number one priority. To learn more about our services and to get involved with our work, please visit the official Fayette County website or contact the shelter directly.