Phoenix animal shelter forced to close for 2 days due to extreme heat

PHOENIX — An animal shelter in Phoenix was forced to shut its doors for several days this week ahead of the high temperatures that were expected to sweep through the Valley.

The Arizona Animal Welfare League will be closed on Tuesday and Wednesday to allow its volunteers and employees to focus on cooling efforts for its animals.

Phoenix was expected to see temperatures as high as 118 degrees on Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service, with some locations in the Valley nearing 120 degrees.

Very dangerous and deadly heat is forecast Monday through Wednesday. Temperatures in Phoenix and Yuma will exceed 115°F with the warmest locations nearing 120°F. Stay hydrated and avoid any outdoor activity. #azwx pic.twitter.com/R3xtwYrwWW

— NWS Phoenix (@NWSPhoenix) July 22, 2018

In order to beat the heat, volunteers and employees with the animal shelter will be distributing cooling mats, ice treats, kennel games and monitoring kennel temperatures on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Volunteers will also take some dogs into their own homes for a few days in an attempt to get as many dogs as possible into air-conditioned homes through Wednesday.

This week will also mark the third time in the shelter’s 47-year history that it has closed to the public due to excessive heat.

The shelter was expected to reopen to the public at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday.

If you plan on spending time outdoors this week, make sure to be prepared. Officials recommend carrying water, re-hydrating with sports drinks and take shelter if need be.

Follow @KTAR923