The Animal Rescue League of Berks County has issued a Code Red for the City of Reading as dangerously hot weather is expected to push the heat index above 95 degrees over several days.
The Code Red will be in effect during the following times: Friday, Aug. 7: Noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 9: 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 10: 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Under Reading’s animal protection ordinance, enacted through Bill No. 22 in 2015, anyone who owns or has custody of a dog within the city must bring the animal inside for the duration of a Code Red. Dogs may only be outside for supervised and necessary bathroom breaks or exercise.
The Animal Rescue League said dogs left outside in violation of the ordinance may be removed by an Animal Control Officer and impounded at the shelter. Owners will have 48 hours after the Code Red has been lifted to reclaim their pets and may be responsible for applicable boarding fees.
Anyone who sees an unsupervised dog left outdoors during the Code Red in the City of Reading is asked to contact the Animal Rescue League at 610-373-8830, ext. 400, or the Reading Police Department’s non-emergency line at 610-655-6116.
Although the ordinance is only enforceable within Reading, the Animal Rescue League is encouraging pet owners throughout Berks County to take extra precautions during the period of extreme heat.
The organization noted that heat affects pets differently, with flat-faced breeds, overweight and elderly dogs, and those with pre-existing heart or lung conditions being especially vulnerable to overheating.
“Some signs to look for are excessive panting, difficulty breathing, drooling, mild weakness, and hazy, stuporous mental state,” said Dr. Sarah Rivera, chief medical officer at the Animal Rescue League of Berks County. “As the signs worsen and your pet continues to overheat, it can lead to more serious signs such as vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and seizures. If you notice any of these signs, you must go to your vet or an emergency vet immediately.”
The Animal Rescue League recommends that pet owners provide pets with constant access to fresh water and shade, leave pets at home whenever possible, never leave them inside a parked vehicle, and limit outdoor activity to the cooler parts of the day. The organization also advises avoiding hot asphalt and concrete, which can reach temperatures of up to 130 degrees, and bringing plenty of water while exercising with pets.
The Code Red announcement comes as Berks County remains under a Heat Advisory through Friday evening, with heat index values expected to reach around 100 degrees.
More information and future Code Red and Code Blue announcements are available on the Animal Rescue League of Berks County’s website.