Hastings, Cottage Grove and the surrounding communities are under an Extreme Heat Warning through 9 p.m.
Thursday, July 16. Afternoon temperatures are expected to climb into the lower and middle 90s, with heat
index values near 100 degrees in parts of the area. Overnight temperatures are also expected to remain near 70
degrees, limiting the amount of relief available after sunset.
For dogs, even a routine walk, a few minutes of play in the yard or a ride along on errands can become
dangerous when heat and humidity build.
Emotional Rescue, a Hastings-area dog rescue and sanctuary, is reminding residents that dogs primarily release
body heat through panting. That system is less efficient during hot, humid weather, especially when a dog is
exercising or does not have access to shade, water or cooler air.
The safest choice during the warning is to move longer walks to early morning or later evening, while keeping
midday trips outdoors brief. Dogs should have constant access to fresh water, and pets spending any time
outside need a shaded place where air can circulate. On the hottest afternoons, keeping pets indoors with air
conditioning or fans is the better option.
Hot pavement creates another danger that can be easy to overlook. Asphalt, concrete, sidewalks, patios and
parking lots absorb sunlight and can become much hotter than the surrounding air. Pet owners can place the
back of a hand against the walking surface before heading out. If the surface is uncomfortable to touch, it is too
hot for a dog’s paws.
Grass and shaded paths are safer choices, but walks should still be shortened. Dogs that suddenly slow down,
stop, seek shade or refuse to continue may already be struggling with the heat.
Early signs of overheating can include heavier panting, restlessness, weakness and increased thirst. When those
signs appear, the dog should be moved into shade or indoors immediately. Owners can offer cool, not ice-cold,
water, wet the dog with cool water and allow it to rest in a well-ventilated area.
More serious symptoms require immediate veterinary attention. Emotional Rescue advises owners to watch for
heavy drooling, bright red or pale gums, disorientation, wobbling, walking in circles, difficulty standing,
collapse or unusual eye movement. Vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and loss of consciousness can also occur as
heat stroke progresses.
Heat stroke can damage the brain and internal organs, and it can become fatal quickly. Cooling efforts should
begin immediately, but they should not delay a call to a veterinarian or a trip to an emergency veterinary clinic.
Owners should not force an overheated pet to drink, and extreme cooling with ice or very cold water should be
avoided.

Some dogs face greater risk than others. Puppies, senior dogs, overweight animals and dogs with heart, lung,
kidney or other medical conditions may have more difficulty regulating body temperature. Flat-faced breeds,
including pugs, French bulldogs and other short-nosed dogs, are especially vulnerable because their airway
structure makes effective panting more difficult. Thick-coated and long-haired dogs also require closer
monitoring.
Cats can overheat as well. Panting in a cat is unusual and should be treated as a warning sign, particularly
when it is paired with drooling, weakness, vomiting, poor coordination or collapse. Outdoor cats need several
sources of fresh water and dependable shade, while barn cats need a well-ventilated area that does not trap
heat. Rabbits, guinea pigs and other small animals should also be kept away from direct sunlight, hot garages,
enclosed porches and poorly ventilated rooms.
Vehicles remain one of the most serious summer hazards. A parked car can heat rapidly, even when the
windows are cracked or the vehicle is in partial shade. During the current heat warning, pets should be left
safely at home rather than brought along for errands. Running into a store for only a few minutes is still too
long when an animal is inside a vehicle without reliable cooling.
Pet owners should also check outdoor water bowls often. Bowls can be tipped over, become warm in direct
sunlight or collect dirt and insects. Placing multiple bowls in shaded locations offers a backup, especially for
pets that spend time in fenced yards or farm settings.
The prolonged nature of this heat wave adds to the risk. Warm nights mean homes, garages, kennels and
outdoor shelters may not cool as quickly as usual. Owners should check sleeping areas, crates and pet rooms
throughout the day, rather than assuming an indoor space remains comfortable.
Emotional Rescue’s message is centered on prevention, observation and quick action. A change in routine for a
few days, including shorter walks, indoor play and more frequent water breaks, can help pets safely make it
through the heat.
Residents can learn more about Emotional Rescue, its sanctuary work, dogs available for adoption and foster
opportunities through the Rescue Life Facebook page and the organization’s website.