Atlanta veterinarian discusses pet safety amid record-breaking heat in Georgia

July 11th, 2023

Dr. Ashely Randall, the medical director and founder of the West End Animal Wellness Center, discusses pet safety amid rising heat in Georgia, as we risk the hottest temperatures the state has seen in 30 years. (Courtesy of West End Animal Wellness Center)

According to data from PETA, at least 113 pets have died from heat-related causes since 2022. Last year, another 488 were rescued from the heat.

These figures only represent incidents that were reported to the animal rights nonprofit. So, it’s possible that the number of heat-related pet deaths and injuries could be higher.

On Tuesday’s edition of “Closer Look,” Dr. Ashely Randall, the Medical Director and Founder of the West End Animal Wellness Center, talked with show host Rose Scott about pet safety amid rising heat in Georgia. Experts say we’re at risk of the hottest temperatures the state has seen in 30 years.

“Obviously, pets pant. They don’t sweat. They don’t have sweat glands,” said Dr. Randall. “The way that they expel heat is their feet and through panting. So, the more they are panting, the heavier they are panting, that typically is the first indication that they are really hot.”