June 27, 2025
Pet Tips You Need This Weekend
Today is a brief respite from the scorching heat Ottawa saw earlier this week. But with the temperature set to creep up over the weekend and Canada Day celebrations on the horizon, there is reason to take precaution with your pets.
Our most common advice when the weather gets warm: don’t leave your pet unattended in a vehicle. A hot car can quickly become a life-threatening situation for a pet. If you see a pet alone in a car on a hot day, immediately call 911.
It’s worth remembering that it doesn’t even need to be an unbearably hot day for a pet to be in danger when left alone in a car. The best way to protect our community’s pets this summer is to share this important message and to know exactly who to call when a pet is in danger.
We’ve also shared some helpful tips on keeping your pet safe during warm weather on our social media. A quick share to your page can help your family and friends watch out for their pets during the hot summer.
Canada Day is also forecasted for hot temperatures, but it’s not just the heat you should watch out for. Canada Day can be one of the busiest days of the year at the OHS: particularly for stray dogs. Firework displays can easily spook even a confident dog and cause them to bolt.
Securing your pet in a place protected from the noise, like a bathroom, basement or a crate padded with blankets will help keep them calm. Draw your curtains and block all exits. If your pet is used to the television or a fan, you can turn that on to mask the sound.
Making sure your pet has ID will help them return home quickly if they do get lost. A collar, tag and updated microchip can give your pet a quick ticket home. Preparation can make all the difference in safeguarding your pet from emergencies.
No matter your plans, I hope this weekend is fun and safe for you and your pets!
Sharon Miko
President & CEO