SPOKANE, Wash. — As Spokane swelters under dangerous heat and poor air quality this summer, local animal welfare experts are urging pet owners to take immediate steps to protect their four-legged companions from the severe conditions.
The Spokane Humane Society is warning that dogs and cats face increased risks during the summer months, particularly when temperatures climb toward triple digits. Even brief outdoor exposure without proper precautions can prove life-threatening.
“It’s important for us to remember that our pets and shelter pets rely on us to keep them safe,” said Sarah Benson, outreach coordinator with the Spokane Humane Society. “Minimizing exercise during really high temperatures during the day and making sure that if they are outside that they have access to shade and fresh water are critical steps pet owners should take.”
Heat-related illness in pets can strike quickly. Dogs face an increased risk of heat stroke as temperatures continue to climb.
“If you see a dog or a cat walking around outside, leave them a bowl of water,” Benson said. “It can make a world of a difference.”
While leaving out food may encourage animals to linger in the area, fresh water is always beneficial, particularly for outdoor cats that may not have reliable access to hydration.
One of the most critical warnings from the Spokane Humane Society involves leaving pets in vehicles.
“Lots of dangers exist even if you park in the shade or crack the window,” Benson explained. “The temperature in the car can rise way higher than the temperature outside. Overheating and heat stroke can set in very quickly, and it’s important to know the signs of that.”
Pet owners should avoid taking their dogs on car rides during peak heat hours or leave them at home in a cool, safe environment instead.
The Spokane Humane Society is encouraging community members to support local animals through fostering or adoption.
“The importance of them finding homes is opening up space so that we can help more animals,” Benson said. “Even if it’s not adopting, if it’s fostering, bringing these animals into your home opens up more space in the shelter for more animals to come in.”
The organization is hosting “The Greatest Adoption Show on Earth” as part of National Adoption Week, providing an opportunity for residents to find their next family pet while supporting the shelter’s mission.
Throughout the weekend, the Spokane Humane Society will be set up at PetSmart off Newport Highway in North Spokane, featuring special deals including reduced and waived adoption fees for cats and dogs. The event includes carnival-themed activities designed to engage the entire family in the adoption process.
“We’ll have a lot of fun activities for people to do,” Benson said. “We’ll have games, we’ll have a balloon artist. Even if you are not looking to adopt, you can still come in and learn about fostering, learn about volunteering, as well as just join and watch all of these animals find great homes.”
The event concludes on Sunday when all adoption fees will be waived for any animals that find their forever homes.
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