Temperatures are reaching into the triple digits this summer and people aren’t the only ones feeling the heat—our four-legged friends need protection from the sun too!
It isn’t just the heat either; humidity can affect pets as well and here in Georgia
Both The Humane Society of the United States
Here are some highlights:
Never leave pets inside a parked car. Cars act like ovens and even on mild days, the temperature inside the car can climb rapidly and enter into dangerous levels, even with the windows cracked. If you have to run an errand, leave the pet at home!
Provide shade and water outside. If any of your pets are outdoors only, be sure to provide plenty of fresh, cold water and cool, shaded areas to protect the pet from the heat. Doghouses provide shelter from the sun, but not from the heat. Also, avoid leaving dogs chained outside while unattended. Doing so can result in numerous insect bites, dehydration, and heatstroke.
Limit outdoor exercise on hot days. Plan exercise according to the temperature. If it is an especially hot day, let the pets exercise in the early morning or late evening. Between 10 am and 4 pm is the hottest time of the day and exercise during these times should be avoided if at all possible.
Pets need sunscreen too. This is especially important if the animal is hairless, white or light-colored. They can sunburn just like people and prolonged exposure can result in peeling and even skin cancer. Sensitive areas include the tips of the ears, nose, and the skin around the lips. Be sure to apply sunscreen to these areas when venturing out into the sun. Also, remember that asphalt can get very hot and can burn a pet’s paws so if exercising, keep the pet on the grass or other cool surfaces if at all possible.
Maintain grooming. Fur/hair is meant to protect the animal from the sun and insulate him from the heat, but excessive fur may trap in heat. Brush on a regular basis and consider clipping your pet if the fur is really dense and thick.
Stay updated on vaccinations and medication. Fleas and ticks stay busy in the warm weather and summer is the prime time for heartworm.
Freeze treats for pets. It will help them to stay cool and provide a yummy snack.
Be cautious of the humidity. It can interfere with the animal’s ability to get rid of excess body heat. Unlike humans, animals only perspire around their paws and isn’t enough to keep them cool. Instead they pant, but high humidity limits the panting process. This is especially important for dogs with snub noses, such as pugs and bulldogs, which further prevent them from panting efficiently.
Beware of gardening products and other chemicals. Summer is the peak season for gardening and many pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals are toxic to animals. Some are even fatal. Research different gardening products in order to know which are toxic and which are safe since many pets enjoy chewing plants.
Recognize the signs of a heatstroke. Heatstroke can be deadly for pets too! Some signs of heatstroke are: heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, restlessness, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, and unconsciousness. If you notice any of these signs, move the animal indoors or to a cool, air-conditioned place. Place ice packs or damp towels on their head, neck, and chest or run cold-water all over their body. Call a veterinarian immediately!
For many, pets are considered family members so it's important to treat them like one. Use these tips to better help protect your pets during this crazy hot summer season!
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