PO Box 360
Trenton, NJ 08625-0360

For Release:
July 5, 2018

Shereef Elnahal
Commissioner

For Further Information Contact:
Office of Communications
(609) 984-7160

Media Advisory: NJ Health Commissioner Visits Animal Shelter to Encourage Pet Heat Safety

On Friday, July 6, Health Commissioner Elnahal and State Public Health Veterinarian Colin Campbell will visit the SAVE -  A Friend to Homeless Animals Shelter in Montgomery to raise awareness about the dangers of heat for animals and provide tips for keeping pets safe and healthy.

Summer has just begun and with it brings high heat and humidity which not only pose dangers for residents and families but also their pets who may be exposed to excessive heat.

“While the summer season is a great time to take pets outdoors, it is also when they are at greatest risk for developing heat-related illnesses such as heat-stroke and heat exhaustion,” said New Jersey Health Commissioner Dr. Shereef Elnahal. “Even with the windows cracked, temperatures inside a hot car can quickly rise as high as 120 degrees. Dogs should not be left behind to swelter in heat. Either leave them at home or take them with you to shady areas.”

Every year, hundreds of pets die from heat exhaustion because they are left in parked vehicles, according to the American Veterinary Medical Foundation.

The event will begin at 11:30am at SAVE - A Friend to Homeless Animals Shelter, 1010 Route 601, Skillman NJ 08558.

Symptoms of heat stress and heat stroke in pets may include heavy panting, dehydration, excess saliva, bluish-purple or bright red gums, rapid or irregular heart rate, muscle tremors, lack of coordination, unconsciousness, and high body temperature.

“It is important to remember that heat-related illnesses can be prevented,” Campbell said. “Keeping pets indoors and providing ample cool water and shade while they are outside are just a few things families can do to ensure their pet’s safety.”

Pets should never be left unattended in vehicles during warm or hot weather. If a resident encounters a pet left in a car, they should contact police immediately and report the incident.

SAVE is an independent non-profit animal shelter dedicated to protecting the health and welfare of homeless companion animals in the greater Princeton area.

Follow the New Jersey Department of Health on Twitter @njdeptofhealth, Facebook /njdeptofhealth, Instagram @njdeptofhealth and Snapchat @njdoh.

Last Reviewed: 7/5/2018