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Summer heat poses danger to dogs

The heat is on in Central Georgia, and cars are becoming more of a danger than a luxury to dogs.

Ashton Nazaroff and his dog Jax are nothing short of best buds.

"He goes everywhere with me," Nazaroff said.

Everywhere, including the store, regardless of judgment.

"I brought him into Walmart and was given kind of a dirty look from some people," Nazaroff explained.

He said it's uncomfortable for us, so for his German Shepherd with a thick coat, it's probably worse.

"Most people, even me, don't like sitting in the car with the A/C on because it's too hot. You wouldn't want to do the same thing to your dog," Nazaroff said.

It goes without saying that a car in Central Georgia summer heats up quickly. In 10 minutes, the car can reach about 110 degrees, and in 30 minutes, over 120 degrees.

Veterinarian Doctor Vernard Hodges says these numbers have brought in a number of sad cases to his office.

"I've seen too many dogs in Georgia pass than probably should have," Hodges said.

Hodges says there are telltale signs that a dog is suffering from dehydration.

"Drooling from the mouth, the dog really staggering, the gums will be really, really bright red or really, really blue," Hodges explained.

Just as there are signs of dehydration, there are ways to take action if you see a dog left in a car.

"You wanna be very quick and decisive with your actions," Hodges continued," Make note of the car, take everything down."

Following these tips and looking for the signs of dehydration will help keep your four-legged friend safe and cool for the summer.

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