Companion animals have sweat glands only on their
nose and the pads of their
feet so they are very vulnerable to extreme heat. The
following guidelines will help ensure that your
companion animals have a fun and safe summer.
Keep your companion animal hydrated:
Take along plenty of water wherever
you go. Your companion animals can’t tell
you when they’re
thirsty!
At home, have several water sources available
to them so they’re encouraged to drink
often.
Limit outdoor exercise during the hottest
times of the day.
Prevent Heatstroke:
Keep your
furry friends hydrated.
Make sure shade is available
at all times.
Never leave your companion animals
in your car on a warm day; even with the windows
cracked, the sun heats the metal and glass windows
making the temperature inside rise rapidly.
Just a few minutes in high heat can cause heatstroke
or serious neurological problems, kidney
failure, etc.
Know the Signs of Heatstroke:
Rapid
panting or difficult breathing
Rolling eyes
A staggering gate
Lying prone
A high temperature (normal for dogs
is 100.2° – 102.8°;
normal for cats is 100.5° - 102.5°)
Treating Heatstroke:
Get your
companion animal out of the direct heat and take
his temperature.
Spray him with cool water for
a couple minutes then recheck his temperature.
Place
cool, water-soaked towels around his neck, on
his abdomen or back.
Take your pet to the nearest
veterinary hospital immediately to be checked.
