With summer just around the corner it is important to take the necessary steps in the care of your pet, to help them ease their transition from cold weather to warm. Here are some tips on how to avoid your pet getting heat stress during those hot summer days!
Certain breeds are more prone to getting heat stress than others. For example short snouted animals, like pugs and Persian cats, are particularly at risk of this, however it can happen to any animal. The main reason for this is that unlike humans who can sweat to cool themselves down, furred animals rely solely on panting and external cooling. If your pet goes outdoors, make sure they have access to shade and always have access to fresh water. Try to prevent exercise during especially hot days, or peak heat hours, and make sure they are in well ventilated areas. Leaving a pet in the car in a parking during a summer day can result in serious harm to their health, like internal organ damage and even death. Never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle during sunny, summer days as cars get incredibly hot and stuffy. Even if the weather seems mild and the windows are open, the sun alone can raise the temperature inside the car to an unbearable level. The dire consequences are not worth the small convenience, so always be safe rather than sorry.
Watch out for signs of heatstroke, which include panting, wheezing, pale or very red gums, drooling, diarrhea or vomiting, annoyance and restlessness, seizures and passing out.
If your pet has these symptoms and you think they may have heat stroke immediately remove them from the heat, wrap them in a wet towel or spray them with cool water, fan them and contact your veterinarian. Keep your furry friends safe this summer!
