Protecting pets during the hot summer months

(WJBK) - If you need to run some errands, leave your pet at home. That's the recommendation from the Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center. Did you you know that on a 78 degree sunny day, a car can become 100-120 degrees within a matter of minutes. Death inside a hot car can happen within minutes for your pets. A dog's normal temperature is between 99.5 and 102.5 degrees, at 105-106 degrees the pet is at risk for developing heat exhaustion. If the body temperature rises to 107 degrees, your pet has entered a critical zone of heat stroke. Look for these danger signs, rapid panting, bright red tongue, red or purple gums, thick and sticky saliva, vomiting and/or diarrhea, shock and coma. If you see any of these signs seek medical attention for your pet. This week's adoptable pet is Cupcake. She is a Jack Russell/Chihuahua mix. She is 11-years-old and was found as a stray. If you would like more information regarding Cupcake, visit: www.oakgov.com/pet adoption, or call 248-391-4100.