Prevent Pet Heatstroke This Summer
Hot sun and high temps can be tough for pets to tolerate, especially senior pets, overweight pets, and those with certain health conditions. Brachycephalic dog breeds like pugs and bulldogs, and snub-nosed cats like Persians and Himalayans are also at an increased risk of overheating.
At Animal Medical Center, we want you to enjoy summer activities with your pets. Our team has put together some pointers to help you spot the signs of pet heatstroke. Plus, we’ve got plenty of ways to keep your pets cool when temperatures heat up.
What is Pet Heatstroke?
Pets naturally have higher body temperatures than we do—with a normal range of 100 to 102.2 degrees. Pet heatstroke can happen when an animal’s body temperature rises above 102.2 degrees.
Why Are Pets Prone to Heatstroke?
Heatstroke poses a serious threat to pets because they have very few sweat glands, mainly on their paw pads and noses, so they can’t cool down by sweating profusely in the summer swelter like we can. Dogs pant, and cats lick their coats for a cooling effect, but with temps and humidity soaring throughout the summer months, these strategies just aren’t enough.
Watch for these signs that your pet is overheating:
- Rapid heart rate
- Dry, pale gums
- Excessive drooling and panting
- Difficulty breathing
- Excessive thirst
- Weakness/uncoordinated
- Vomiting/diarrhea
- Fever
- Seizure
- Sudden collapse
How to Help a Pet That is Overheating
If your pet is exhibiting the following signs of pet heatstroke, take the following action immediately:
- Take your pet indoors or to a shaded area.
- Place cool (NOT ice cold) towels on your pet’s head, feet, and neck.
- Offer cool water to drink.
- Contact us or the nearest emergency clinic for further instructions.
How to Prevent Pet Heatstroke
Take these precautions from our team to protect your pets in the summer heat:
Never Leave a Pet in a Parked Car
Not for a minute. Not even with the AC running. Ever.
Protect Your Pet’s Paws
Chances are, you’re wearing shoes when you walk your dog, but your pooch’s little paws also need protection from hot surfaces. If you can’t keep the back of your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for Fido!
Adjust Your Daily Walks
Avoid walking with your pets in the midday heat, and switch to shorter walks when the heat and humidity are high.
Take Frequent Breaks
Always carry clean, cool water and a travel bowl for your pet, and take frequent breaks to drink and rest during any outdoor activity.
Create a Cool, Backyard Oasis
Designate a shady backyard spot for potty breaks, and equip it with a bowl of clean water for your pet to drink. And never leave your pet outdoors unsupervised on hot summer days.
By being proactive with pet safety, you can enjoy the season of outdoor fun with your pet. Contact us at (813) 654-6222 to schedule your pet’s wellness visit or if you have more questions about preventing pet heatstroke.