As the temperatures rise, so does your pet’s heat-related emergency risk. While pets do sweat, their sweat glands don’t function the same way that people’s do. Pets have only a few sweat glands, mostly located in their paws, and they must rely on inefficient means, such as panting, to regulate their body temperature. Because panting is a less efficient cooling mechanism than sweating, pets are more susceptible to overheating than people. Summer’s scorching heat brings many dangers that can quickly turn a day of fun in the sun into a disaster. Our team at Companion Veterinary Clinic explores common pet heat hazards and shares practical tips to keep your pet safe and comfortable all summer long.
Pet heat hazard 1: Paw burns
Pets are at risk for paw pad burns if they have prolonged contact with hot asphalt, concrete, or artificial turf. Paved surfaces become much hotter than the surrounding air, and they can burn your pet’s paws in minutes. Before walking your pet, test any surface with the back of your hand. If you cannot hold it there comfortably for seven seconds, the surface is too hot for your pet, who could burn their paw pads. If the surface is too hot, you can place boots on your pet’s feet for added protection, walk on grassy paths, or wait until a cooler time of day to walk.
Pet heat hazard 2: Dehydration
Like people, pets need adequate water intake to stay hydrated and healthy. Pets can become dehydrated quickly in hot weather. Dehydration occurs when your pet does not drink as much fluid as they lose. A dehydrated pet loses electrolytes, such as sodium, calcium, and potassium, which are important for organs’ and tissues’ proper functioning. Because water is necessary for carrying out all body processes, dehydration can cause organ systems to shut down, and in severe cases, can be deadly. Keep your pet well hydrated by placing several bowls inside your home and in your yard. Many pets will drink more when the water is cool, so consider putting ice cubes or crushed ice in their bowl, which will help keep the water colder longer. Always bring a collapsible bowl and bottled water when you go out with your pet.
Pet heat hazard 3: Heat exhaustion and heatstroke
Cats’ and dogs’ normal body temperature runs between 100 and 102.5 degrees, and heatstroke is defined as a severe elevation in body temperature above 104.5 degrees. Common heat exhaustion signs, which occurs directly before heatstroke, include lethargy, excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and incoordination. You must be able to recognize heat exhaustion signs early, and quickly move your pet to a cool area to prevent the condition from progressing to more serious heatstroke. In addition to heat exhaustion signs, pets with heatstroke may have bright red gums, or convulsions, or may collapse. If you suspect your pet is overheated, follow these tips to cool them down gently:
- Move your pet to a cool, shaded, or air-conditioned area
- Mist them with room-temperature water
- Direct a fan toward them
- Take their rectal temperature
- Bring your pet to Companion Veterinary Clinic as soon as possible, first letting us know you are on your way so we can be ready for your pet.
Pet heat hazard 4: Sunburn
Some pets, particularly those with light-colored fur or exposed skin, can get sunburned. Use only pet-safe sunscreen and apply a small amount to your pet’s exposed areas such as their nose, ears, and belly.
Tips to keep your pet cool
Although summer’s high temperatures can harm your pet’s health, the two of you can enjoy many great times together outdoors. Protect your pet during summer’s scorching heat by taking these precautions:
- Stay in the shade — When outdoors with your pet provide them with a cool, shaded spot to retreat, such as under trees or a sun shade or awning.
- Never leave your pet in a parked vehicle — Interior vehicle temperatures can soar to dangerous levels quickly, and you must never leave your pet in the car for any reason. Parking in the shade or leaving your windows slightly open will not keep the temperature safe for your pet. If you think you will have to leave your pet in the car while you run errands, you should leave them in your air-conditioned home.
- Avoid shaving your pet — Although you may believe that shaving off that fur coat will help your pet cool off, that is not the case. Your pet’s fur acts as insulation, keeping them warm during the winter, and cool during the summer. Trimming long-haired pets can help remove some of the excessive bulk, but daily brushing is the best, most appropriate grooming.
By following these safety tips, you can help prevent your pet from developing heat-related illnesses and injuries, so you can enjoy your summer adventures worry-free. If you have questions or notice heatstroke signs in your pet, contact our Companion Veterinary Clinic team for guidance.
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