HELP PETS STAY SAFE AMID SOARING TEMPERATURES AND HIGH HEAT INDEX VALUES

The heat is on in Northwest Georgia! Now is the time to stay hydrated, keep an eye on your elderly neighbors, and take necessary precautions to stay safe amid soaring temperatures and high heat index values.

Pet owners should also be vigilant in helping their pets to beat the heat, urges Dr. Dan Pate, owner of the West Rome Animal Clinic, who recommends that outdoor pets should have access to plenty of water, as well as a shady spot in which to find a cool shelter from direct sunlight. And, of course, refrain from leaving an animal in a hot car! If you do not want to leave your pet at home, Dr. Pate recommends that you have an extra set of keys handy. That ensures that you can lock your car and still leave the air conditioning running for your pet so he or she can stay cool while you run your errands at the places that do not allow pets.

The National Weather Service predicts that high temperatures for the Greater Rome area will soar in the upper 90s today, with the heat index values as high as 104. Mostly sunny skies will be accompanied by a chance of showers and thunderstorms this afternoon.