Wisconsin Humane Society urges pet owners to take precautions during heat wave

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- With temperatures expected to soar in Wisconsin over the next few days, the Wisconsin Humane Society has released some tips to keep pets safe in the extreme heat.

• Do not leave your animal in the car. Overheating can kill them.The inside of a vehicle can reach 160 degrees in mere minutes, even with windows cracked. 
• Take walks in early morning and after sunset.  On especially hot days, any outdoor exercise should be brief and in the cooler hours.
• Test the pavement with your palm. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for their paws.
• Never leave an animal out in the sun. Always ensure they have access to shade and plenty of fresh water.
• Regulate the temperature inside your home. Use AC, fans, or give access to cooler areas like a basement or darker room with tile floors.
• Be cautious with old, overweight, and snub-nosed dogs. Boston terriers, Pekingese, Pugs, Lhasa Apsos, Shih tzus, and Bulldogs are especially vulnerable. Also closely monitor dogs with heart or lung diseases.
• Watch for signs of heat stroke. These include panting, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, rapid pulse, bright red gums, and blue tongue or lips.
• Treat heat stroke immediately. Move them to a cool place and lower their body temperature with cool (NOT icy) water, then contact your vet.