As the winter weather vanishes, it is often easy to forget how warm the mid-day sun gets. It is critical if you are a pet owner that you keep your dog or cat safe from the summer sun and heat. This is especially important if your pet wanders outdoors during the day.
Keeping your pet hydrated
Whether your pet is an indoor or an outdoor pet, make sure they have plenty of clean, cold water at their disposal. Freshen it with ice cubes throughout the day if necessary to keep it cold. Make sure if your dog or cat wanders in and out that you have a supply of water both indoors and outdoors. Make sure that water remains in the same area. Providing plenty of water will help prevent dehydration as well as potential kidney problems that can be caused by dehydration.
Picking the right time of day
Anyone who owns a dog understands how much they love to walk. Walk first thing in the morning or after dusk when the temperatures are at their lowest. Avoid any strenuous activity during the warmest part of the day, electing to play outdoors during cooler hours. Keeping your pets indoors during the hottest time of the day can help them stay more comfortable.
Outdoor pets and hot sun
For those who have pets who prefer the outdoors, make sure there is adequate shelter from the sun. Whether it is a grove of trees, under a deck or porch or something you build yourself, your pet should have a place to cool down. It is important that the area be as sheltered as possible and safe for them. If they go to this area frequently while they are outside it is a good idea to keep their water in the same area.
Traveling with your pets
Never leave your pet in a vehicle, even with the windows open. Your car can get very hot in a short period of time which could turn out to be fatal to your pet. It does not take long for heat to build up inside a car and for your pet to become quickly overheated.
Pet sunscreens
Short-haired pets need sunscreen especially designed for pets. "People" sunscreens should not be used on pets as they can be toxic. Use specially designed sunscreens for pets recommended by your vet or a pet shop. If your pet has a lightly colored nose they may also be burned in the hot summer sun. Follow all sunscreen directions thoroughly.
Understanding the warning signs
For dogs and cats, symptoms of heat problems include lethargy and excessive panting among other symptoms. Make sure you educate yourself about all warning signs to protect your pet from illness related to heat.
Caring for heat problems
If your pet is exhibiting signs of heat-related problems be sure you understand the steps you need to take to help them. You should take immediate action if you believe your pet is suffering from a heat- related problem including:
- Cooler area - bring your pet indoors and allow them to cool down. Hasten the process by placing wet towels on their bodies. Make sure the water you use is not icy cold; instead make it cool or tepid
- Air circulation - try to get the air circulating around your pet. If this means using a fan or simply adding and removing moist towels at regular intervals, this will help cool your pet down quickly and effectively
- Bathing your pet - you may elect to place your pet in a sink or tub of water. Use tepid water so you do not shock their systems especially if they are showing signs of heat-related problems
Breeds that are more susceptible
The breeds of dog that are most susceptible to heat-related problems are bulldogs, pugs, Boston Terriers, Lhasa Apsos and Shih Tzus. For cats, those with long, thick coats are most susceptible. Any pet with a medical condition should be monitored carefully. It is important that you monitor your pet for any signs of heat problems and help keep them safe in hot weather.
It is up to you to
keep your dog or cat safe in the summer sun. Spend a safe summer and educate yourself about potential heat-related problems. Keeping pets safe in hot weather will keep your four-legged friend happy and healthy.
