Hot Dog Alert Line Saves Lives

Posted by Linda Chavez on June 30, 2010 // 0 Comments

Although animal welfare organizations repeatedly warn pet parents about the dangers of leaving their dogs in cars, every year numerous dogs continue to fall victim to neglect.

In hopes of curbing the number of car heat-related dog deaths, the Berks County Humane Society in Douglassville, Pa., has taken steps this summer to empower bystanders wanting to help animals in heat distress, reports The Mercury News.

The local humane society has set up a public phone line and christened it the “Hot Dog Alert Line.” It will be available 24 hours a day to residents wanting to report an animal (dog or otherwise) in heat-related distress.

Residents who witness an animal in a compromising situation where overheating could lead to distress or death should call 610-921-2348 and press 1.

“They will be put immediately in touch with an Animal Protective Services Officer,” according to The Mercury News. “The officer will check on any reports of dogs in heat distress.”

Although most people hear about dogs suffering heat exhaustion when left in cars, other factors can lead a dog to suffer from hyperthermia or heat stroke. As described in HOW TO Keep Your Dog Safe in the Heat, since dogs aren’t able to handle heat in the same way as humans (dogs don’t sweat), pet parents have to take particular care in protecting their dogs.

If you suspect a dog may be suffering from heat exhaustion, here are some signs to look for:
Sluggish behavior
Unresponsiveness
Vomiting
Seizure
Excessive drooling
Diarrhea
Rapid panting
Glassy eyes
Bright red tongue and/or gums
Tongue hanging out further than normal
Lack of coordination; staggering

If your own dog shows any of these symptoms, take him to the veterinarian immediately.

If you do come across a dog in a car and you’re not in the Douglassville area, call your local animal control and/or 911 immediately. Your actions may save that dog’s life, and unbeknownst to the dog’s pet parent, you may save both dog and human from an enormous amount of grief.

Hopefully “Hot Dog Alert Lines” will start popping up in cities everywhere.

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Category : News