Summer has arrived and with it the scorching temperatures. The southern states of the United States are experiencing their third consecutive week of a extreme heat wave. However, it’s not just us humans who need to take precautions to stay safe and cool during the summer: our pets also need a little TLC to keep dangers at bay. high temperatures.
Believe it or not, our four-legged friends can also suffer from heat-related illnesses, including heatstroke and dehydration, as well as burnt pads. As responsible pet parents, we need to protect them from potential heat hazards to ensure they have a happy and healthy summer.
Animal heat-related illnesses
Rising temperatures can pose significant risks to our pets. Understanding the signs and symptoms of common heat-related illnesses is crucial to preventing complications.
Heat stroke in pets
It is important to note that animals cannot cool off by sweating like us (humans). Although they have their own ways of cooling themselves, such as panting, it can be more difficult for them to regulate their body temperature in high heat. Heat stroke occurs when our the animal’s body temperature rises at a dangerous level and they cannot calm down. This can cause organ damage and even be life-threatening.
Heatstroke in pets, symptoms:
- Drool.
- Excessive panting.
- Red gums.
- Increased heart rate.
- Vomiting.
- Weakness.
- Seizures (in severe cases).
What to do if your pet has heatstroke:
- Take your pet to a cool, shady place.
- Give them cold water to drink.
- Help them cool off with a fan or put a cool, damp towel over them.
- Call your veterinarian for advice on next steps.
Paw pad burns
Hot sidewalks, pavement and sand can burn your pet’s paw pads. If you want to check if the ground is too hot for your pet, you can follow the seven-second rule by pressing your hand against the pavement or asphalt for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet.
According to Dr Sara Ochoa, a veterinarian in Whitehouse, Texas, “Asphalt can get much hotter than the ambient air temperature. On a sunny day, asphalt can reach temperatures of up to 104 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.” She recommends avoiding walking on asphalt when the ambient temperature is above 86 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you must take your pet outside in hot weather, it is best to walk in grassy areas or use protective booties.
Burning of the paw pads symptoms:
- Blisters on the legs.
- Missing skin on their pads.
- Redness.
- Limping.
- Refusing to walk.
- Discolored pads.
- Excessive paw licking.
How to treat your pet’s pad burn:
- Disinfect your pet’s pads with water and antibacterial soap.
- Soak the paws in clean, cool water.
- Bandage your pet’s paws to prevent licking and infection.
- Call your veterinarian to assess the severity of the burns.
Dehydration in animals
Like us, animals can become dehydrated in hot weather if they don’t drink enough water during their activities. Dehydration occurs when your pet loses more water and electrolytes than it takes in. Drinking plenty of water allows your pet to cool off when its body temperature rises. If you plan to take your pet out for the day, bring an extra bottle of water and a waterer. If you plan to leave your pet at home while you’re away, make sure they have plenty of water until you return.
Dehydration symptoms in pets:
- Difficulty breathing.
- Muscle tremors.
- Excessive panting.
- Lethargy.
- Vomiting or diarrhea.
- Dry nose.
- Sunken eyes (in case of severe dehydration).
- Collapse or shock (in case of severe dehydration).
What if your the animal is dehydrated
- If your pet shows symptoms of severe dehydration, call your veterinarian immediately.
- Offer small amounts of water with ice. Drinking too much water can cause them to vomit, making dehydration worse.
Tips for keeping your pet safe in the heat
Keeping our four-legged friends safe during the warmer months is crucial to their health. Here are some expert tips for pet owners to keep their pets cool and comfortable all summer long.
Never leave your pet alone in a parked car
Not only leave your animal alone in your car illegal in some states, but it can result in permanent organ damage or even death. I know what you’re thinking, “I’ll just leave the air conditioning on.” Not so fast. It’s not just the heat outside that can affect your pet. Your pet’s body temperature may also rise because of stressand excessive panting can aggravate the rise in body temperature.
Always watch your pet near large bodies of water
Even if your pet is a good swimmer, use a pet life jacket when you’re on a boat, paddle board, or kayak. If you plan to take your pet to the pool, bring him fresh water and make sure he doesn’t drink the pool water.
Provide shade and water outdoors
When participating in outdoor activities with your pet, be sure to check if there are trees nearby to provide enough air circulation and shade for your pet to cool off. A dog house is not ideal because the air does not circulate properly inside – this can make the heat worse for them.
Use sunscreen for animals
Moisturizing cream that protects your pet’s skin and coat from harmful UV rays. Recommended for pets with fine, white or light hair.
According to Dr. Ochoa, just like humans, pets can also get sunburn, “especially those with light or fine fur.” To prevent sunburn on your pet, you can apply a pet-friendly sunscreen to the areas most exposed to the sun, such as the nose and ears. You can also use protective paw creams that act as barriers between your pet’s paws and the pavement.
Limit exercise and physical activities on hot days
It’s best to check the weather during warm months to ensure your pet’s safety when exercising. If it’s particularly hot, it’s best to take them out in the early morning or late afternoon when it’s cooler. If you must take your dog outside during the day, try walking him on grass and give him plenty of fresh, cool water.
Portable water dispenser for pets. It is waterproof and easy to use, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Watch out for humidity
As if heat weren’t enough to harm your pet’s health, humidity can make it worse. Your pet’s panting is his way of removing excess moisture from his lungs to cool himself. When the humidity is high, it is more difficult for them to cool as quickly. If it’s hot and humid, give them frozen treats or cold water, or even take a portable fan with you to keep them from overheating.
Don’t shave your pet
It may seem counterintuitive not to shave your pet’s coat during the summer, but their fur plays an important role in keeping them cool. THE undercoat layer of your pet’s hair helps regulate their body temperature during the heat. Cutting or shaving your pet’s hair can prevent their ability to cool off when needed.