WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — With record temperatures sweeping across the United States, pet owners must take extra precautions to protect their pets from heat-related dangers, including heat stroke and dehydration. This challenge becomes particularly complex for those caring for large animals like horses, as simply bringing them indoors to air conditioning is not an option.

Alicia Grace, the owner of Pink Flamingo Stables in Lake Worth Beach, Florida, faces unique challenges in keeping her eight full-size horses and three ponies healthy in the hot and humid climate of South Florida. The region, home to a substantial equestrian community, is particularly adverse for horses, which thrive in cooler, drier conditions. Grace emphasizes the dual threat of intense heat and high humidity, stating that this environment also attracts bothersome insects like flies and mosquitoes that can exacerbate health issues in horses.

Maintaining adequate hydration and shelter from the sun during the hottest parts of the day is essential for Grace's horses. To mitigate the heat, her paddocks are equipped with shaded areas, and the barns have large fans for ventilation. "They always have constant access to water," Grace explains, noting that she bathes the horses daily and applies cooling blankets after rides to further aid in temperature regulation.

Unlike typical household pets such as dogs and cats, horses present a unique set of challenges when it comes to cooling measures. Although air conditioning units for horses are available, their high cost makes them less feasible for many horse owners. Grace points out that horses require significantly more care to withstand the oppressive summer heat compared to smaller animals.

In addition to concerns about overheating and dehydration, horses are also susceptible to the algae and fungi that thrive in South Florida's wet environment. Grace notes that flooding during the rainy season can lead to saturated hooves, resulting in painful abscesses and other foot problems.

While cats, dogs, and other smaller pets can be easily brought indoors for relief from summer heat, owners must still be proactive in ensuring their safety outside. Arielle Weinberger, a representative from Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control, stresses the importance of providing shade and water for outdoor pets. She also highlights the legal implications of leaving animals in vehicles, as it is illegal to leave pets unattended in cars within Palm Beach County, where temperatures can rise 20 degrees in just 10 minutes.

When it comes to pavement temperatures, Weinberger warns that concrete and asphalt can reach scorching levels of up to 125 degrees Fahrenheit (52 degrees Celsius) during the summer months, making it essential for pet owners to seek cooler surfaces for their dogs to walk on. Booties or paw wax can be effective alternatives when grass or dirt isn't available. "If it’s too hot for you to touch with a bare foot or a bare hand, it’s too hot for your pets as well," she adds.

For those who do not own pets, there are still ways to contribute to animal welfare by leaving out water for community cats or local wildlife. If pet owners notice any animals showing signs of dehydration or heat stroke, animal control officers are available to respond, but residents should contact local wildlife rescue facilities if they encounter sick wild animals.

If an animal appears to be overheating, it's advised to cool them down by applying water to their head, stomach, and feet. However, if symptoms such as diarrhea, lethargy, dizziness, or vomiting emerge, immediate veterinary attention is crucial, as untreated heat stroke could lead to organ failure.

Matthew Puodziukaitis, a 19-year-old resident of Wellington, exemplifies responsible pet ownership by bringing his mini goldendoodle, Hazel, to the Okeeheelee Park dog area with a bottle of cold water and a bowl for other dogs in need. "The last thing you want is a dog passing out or something bad happening to them out here," he remarks, emphasizing the importance of monitoring their well-being during the sweltering summer heat.