A Code Red has been issued for Reading by the Animal Rescue League of Berks County due to the forecasted extreme heat beginning June 22.
The National Weather Service is calling for a high of 95 degrees in Reading on Sunday, 99 on Monday, 98 on Tuesday and 96 on Wednesday. AccuWeather is predicting a high of 97 Sunday, 95 Monday, 93 Tuesday and 95 Wednesday.
The hours the Code Red is in effect are Sunday, 1 to 8 p.m.; Monday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Wednesday, noon to 7 p.m.
Owners and caretakers of dogs in Reading must keep them indoors except for supervised bathroom breaks and exercise because of a predicted heat index of 95 or above.
Heat index is calculated by combining temperature and humidity to determine the level of discomfort it creates.
The Code Red measure was added to the city code in 2015.
Noncompliance can result in the animal being removed by an animal control officer from the property and impounded at the ARL in Cumru Township.
Owners would have 48 hours after the Code Red has been lifted to pick up their dogs, and will be subject to applicable boarding fees.
Anyone witnessing an unsupervised dog left outside in Reading during those hours should call the ARL at 610-373-8830.
The ARL encourages all Berks County residents caring for pets to abide by the Code Red.
Signs of heat distress, precautions
“Heat affects every pet in a different way, and some are more susceptible than others,” the ARL said in its Code Red announcement. “Particularly, animals with flat faces or obese elderly dogs and cats, and dogs with pre-existing heart or lung conditions, are more vulnerable to overheating.”
How to know if a pet is in distress from the heat?
“Some signs to look for are excessive panting, difficulty breathing, drooling, mild weakness and hazy stuporous mental state,” said Dr. Sarah Rivera, chief medical officer at the ARL. “As the signs worsen and your pet continues to overheat, it can lead to more serious signs such as vomiting, bloody diarrhea and seizures. If you notice any of these signs, you must go to your vet or an emergency vet immediately.”
The ARL offered the following suggestions: make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade; leave pets at home when running errands, never leave a pet in a vehicle because temperatures inside can reach 120 degrees even with a window open; walk or hike during cooler hours and avoid taking a pet on asphalt or concrete; and when exercising with a pet, take frequent breaks and be sure to take along enough water for yourself and your pet.
