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As record-breaking heat covers much of the United States, staying cool is on everyone’s mind. If you have pets, keeping them cool and comfortable is crucial for their health and safety too.
Keep reading to learn how dog and cat owners can keep their furry friends comfortable in the sweltering temperatures.
The summer heat can be dangerous for our pets. While you’re likely familiar with the signs of heat stroke in humans, did you know pets can suffer too? Even healthy, active, and younger dogs can overheat during a walk or while playing in the backyard. Since our pets can’t recognize when they’re overdoing it, it’s our responsibility to protect them.
Here are some tips for identifying the signs of heat-related illness and for keeping your pets cool, so everyone can enjoy the summer safely.
Keeping Pets Cool & Safe This Summer
Plan Outdoor Activity for the Cooler Times of the Day
During the summer months, plan your dog’s walks and outdoor play times for first thing in the morning or in the evening, when the sun is less intense.
Many dogs don’t know when to stop exercising, so they rely on us to gauge their activity levels. Ensure they have plenty of shade and that they avoid overexertion. If your pet starts panting excessively or slowing down, take them to a shady area and offer water immediately.
Be aware that pets with flat faces like bulldogs, pugs, and Persian cats, as well as elderly, overweight, and pets with heart or lung conditions, have a harder time cooling themselves down by panting, making them more prone to heatstroke.
When temperatures soar, keep vulnerable animals indoors. Ensure your indoor pets have access to air-conditioning or fans, especially on particularly hot days.
Protect Your Pet’s Paws
When you do go outdoors, take note of the temperature of the sidewalk or asphalt. Hot pavement can burn paw pads. A good rule of thumb: if you can’t hold your palm on the pavement for five seconds, it’s too hot for your dog to walk on.
You’ll know your pet has paw-pad burns if they limp and/or refuse to walk. The top layer of skin on their pads might look red and blistered or may be peeling.
Always check for cracks and redness between your petโs toes and on their pads, as these are signs of overexposure to hot pavement. You may want to invest in pet booties, which can help protect sensitive paws.
Cool Them Down Quickly
If youโre outside with your pet, and notice that they’re getting too warm, stop what you’re doing, and get them into the shade, or even better, inside where there’s air conditioning or a fan. Allow your pet time to rest and cool down, and of course, give them plenty of fresh, cool water. (Don’t let your pet drink from ponds, puddles, or other standing water instead of bringing water along for them. Drinking from these types of water sources can lead to life-threatening illness or infection.)
You can also use a cool, damp cloth on your dog’s head, paws, armpits, belly, back, and rump and the tops of their ears to cool them down faster. However, donโt use ice water, since this can actually be dangerous.
If you have a dog or cat with a particularly long or thick coat, a shorter summer haircut or shave may keep them more comfortable.
Never, Ever Leave Pets in a Hot Car
Not only is it cruel and dangerous to leave a pet in a hot car, it’s also a crime in many states. The heat can rise to 20 degrees hotter than the outside temperature in a matter of minutes, which can quickly lead to death from heatstroke. And, no, cracking the window isn’t the answer. It has almost no effect on the temperature inside the car.
The bottom line? If you canโt bring your pet inside with you, leave them at home where they’ll be safe.
Know the Signs of Overheating
Dogs and cats can become overheated, get dehydrated, and succumb to heat stroke easily. To keep them safe, always provide your pets with plenty of clean, fresh drinking water and keep them out of the hot summer temperatures as much as possible.
Some signs that your dog is suffering heat stroke include:
- Excessive panting
- Bright red gums
- Elevated heart and respiration rates
- Elevated temperature
- Disorientation/stumbling
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea
- Drooling
- Weakness
- Seizures
If your pet is suffering from heat stroke, don’t wait to act. If it progresses, heat stroke can be fatal relatively quickly. Get your pet to their veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet is in distress.
By staying vigilant and proactive, you can help your pets beat the heat and enjoy a fun, safe summer together.
Also read:
5 Fun Boredom Busters for Dogs the Whole Family Will Enjoy
7 Summer Essentials for Dogs (What Your Dog Needs for a Fun & Safe Summer)
5 Tips for a Successful Road Trip With Your Dog
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