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Helpful tips as temperatures rise

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Helpful tips as temperatures rise

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Helpful tips as temperatures rise

Kingfisher County is facing dangerously hot temperatures this week, leading physicians, pet and livestock authorities to advise caution.

The county has been in a heat advisory for much of the week and the current one runs through at least 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 19.

Heat index values could reach up to 110 degrees during that time.

Although the weekend is expected to bring some relief, temperatures are forecasted to rise again next week.

Health officials advised residents, especially the elderly, to avoid the daytime heat, if possible.

Kingfisher County Emergency Management shared the graphic featured above on its Facebook page.

It provides the symptoms of both heat exhaustion and heat stroke and what to do if you’re experiencing those symptoms.

Local veterinarians Dr. James Matousek of Wheatland Veterinary Hospital and Dr. Kenneth Karrenbrock of Karrenbrock Veterinary Clinic offered identical tips for pets and livestock.

Make sure outside pets have shade and plenty of fresh water.

Matousek added that if animals are exposed to heat without those necessities for a long period of time, they can fall victim to heat strokes.

If that happens, immediate treatment includes getting them in a cool place and running cold water over their paws and “calling your vet immediately.”

He added that if pets cannot be supplied adequate fresh water and shade outdoors, they should be brought indoors.

Karrenbrock said that a breeze on animals is helpful.

Regarding livestock, the veterinarians reminded that having plentiful water and shade is vital.

They advised also that moving livestock, as well as necessary treatment procedures, should be done in the early morning hours when it is cooler.

Dangerous heat is forecasted for the week with expected highs of 104 degrees Tuesday and 102 degrees on Wednesday.

The hottest days of summer are ahead, threatening people and animals alike.

Agriculture specialists recommend completing livestock work before 10 a.m.

Panting and tremors are indications of distress.