With a Heat Advisory in effect until noon on Tuesday throughout central Kansas – triple digit temperatures mean extreme danger for animals left in vehicles.

Vanessa Cowie, Animal Services Supervisor at the Salina Animal Shelter stopped by the KSAL Morning News with a look at taking care of our four-legged friends. “If you see a dog left in car don’t wait – call us,” she said.

“It may not turn into a citation for the dog owner but at least it will be an educational moment.”

Cowie says that on a comfortable 78-degree day, temperatures inside a vehicle can climb from 100 to 120-degrees in just a matter of minutes.

“Dogs don’t have sweat glands, in their skin like people do, they sweat through the pads on their paws,” Cowie said.

“A dog suffering from a heatstroke will show symptoms like heavy panting and have a very dark-red tongue. In some cases they may become very lethargic and lay on the floor.”

Cowie adds that quick action may save an animals life when it appears they are being neglected or abused.

Learn more about the Salina Animal Shelter at www.salinaanimalshelter.org or by calling 785-826-6535.