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Upcoming Heat Wave Raises Public Health Concerns for People and Pets
GRAND RAPIDS, MI. (June 20, 2025) — The first heat wave of the season is forecast to impact West Michigan this weekend through early next week as highs temperatures climb into the 90s, exacerbated by sunshine and humidity. The Kent County Health Department (KCHD) and Kent County Animal Shelter (KCAS) want to share important public health reminders with the community to help keep people and pets safe.
“Heat-related illness can develop quickly and escalate into a medical emergency,” said Dr. Kristin Oldenberg, Medical Director at the KCHD. “Infants, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions are especially vulnerable. As the temperatures rise, we’re urging everyone to stay hydrated, limit exertion, and take care of those around them.”
Heat-related illnesses can range from uncomfortable to life-threatening, and early recognition is key. Understanding what to watch for can help you respond quickly and potentially save a life.
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Heat exhaustion may cause heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, headache, and muscle cramps.
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Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency. Symptoms include a body temperature of 103°F or higher, confusion, rapid pulse, hot and dry skin, or fainting. If someone shows signs of heat stroke, call or text 911 immediately and move them to a cooler place.
You can reduce your risk of heat-related illness this weekend and all summer long by planning ahead and following a few simple safety measures, including:
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Stay hydrated. Drink water throughout the day, even if you're not thirsty.
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Avoid the hottest times of day. Schedule outdoor activities in the morning or evening, when the sun is lower in the sky and it's typically cooler—just also remember to apply insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites.
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Dress appropriately. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing to stay cool.
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Take breaks in cool spaces. Rest indoors in air-conditioned buildings or shaded areas as often as possible. A list of cooling shelters in the area can be found on the Grand Rapids Coalition to End Homelessness website, though residents are encouraged to call ahead to confirm hours and availability.
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Never leave people in parks cars. Temperatures inside can become deadly in just minutes, even with windows cracked.
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Check on family members, neighbors, and older adults. Take a moment to reach out by phone, text, or a quick visit to make sure those close to you are staying cool, hydrated, and informed.
Pets and other animals can suffer from heat-related illness just like people, and they rely on us to keep them safe. During extreme heat, it’s critical to adjust routines and take steps to protect their health, including:
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Bring pets indoors whenever possible. Many animals are not equipped to handle the effects of high temperatures for extended periods.
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Provide shade and cool water. Ensure pets have access to shaded areas and fresh, cool drinking water at all times. If they use a doghouse, move the doghouse to a shaded area. Consider setting up a small pool filled with cool water or use cooling mats indoors to help lower their body temperature. If you're on a walk, bring a portable water bowl to keep pets hydrated.
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Avoid hot surfaces. When walking your pets, check the pavement with the back of your hand. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for their paws. Walk them during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
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Never leave pets in parked vehicles. Even for a short time, leaving pets in a parked car can lead to heatstroke. The temperature inside a vehicle can rise rapidly and become fatal, even with the windows cracked.
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Know the signs of overheating. Be aware of symptoms such as excessive panting, drooling, weakness, and difficulty breathing. If you suspect your pet is overheating, cool them down with water and seek veterinary care as soon as possible.
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Keep your pets well-groomed. Regular grooming can help keep your pets cool. While you can trim longer hair, avoid shaving your dog completely as their fur provides insulation against heat.
“These conditions can be life-threatening for animals without proactive, intentional care," said Angela Hollinshead, KCAS Director. "We're urging all pet owners to plan ahead to protect their animals from the elements and want residents to know they can contact Animal Control at 616-632-7310 if they see otherwise."
For additional information, including updates on cooling centers and community resources, residents are encouraged to call 2-1-1. For more information on how to keep pets and other animals safe in the heat, please visit the ASPCA website. To schedule an interview, please reach out to Christina Anthony at 724-691-5120.
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