Massachusetts heat waves and a large working dog

The Mass.gov extreme heat safety tips defines a heat wave in Massachusetts as usually three or more consecutive days above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. In a MEMA heat release, the state emergency management director urges residents never to leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle.

The City of Cambridge heat page adds that even with the windows cracked, the interior of a car can rise to deadly levels, and that pets cannot cool themselves the way people do.

A local news report cites M.G.L. c. 140, section 174F as making it illegal to leave an animal in a motor vehicle in a way that threatens its health from extreme heat or cold (Daily Item report). Verify current penalties before relying on that detail.

1. Walk at dawn or after sunset.
2. Keep shade and fresh water available all day.
3. Leave the dog at home for errands that involve parking.
4. Check pavement with your hand before a walk.
5. Know your nearest emergency veterinarian.

A good professional will say plainly how the dog handles heat and humidity. A claim that a working dog ignores the weather is a reason to keep asking questions.