Jun 02 2009
Summer temperatures can be dangerous for pets
A veterinarian once told me that he treated twice as many pets for conditions related to summer heat than the cold temperature of winter.
Animals are more prone to over-heating the people, and getting too hot can be deadly for our pets in a matter of minutes.
With the official start of summer just around the corner, now is the time to start thinking about the safety precautions you’ll take to keep your dog, cat, rabbit or other furred or feathered friend safe and cool during the season - even those who live primarily indoors.
Below are some basic safety guidelines and tips.
• Never leave a pet in a parked vehicle. Cars can heat up in a matter of minutes.Ensure your pet always has access to fresh water. Adding a few ice cubes to the water bowl is a special treat on a hot day.
• Ensure your pet is up-to-date on flea, tick, heart worm and other parasite preventatives.
• Walk your dog early in the morning or in the late evening when temperature are cooler. Plan for shorter walks during hot weather.
• The pads of dogs and cats paws are sensitive and pavement heats up quickly. If you’re walking with your animal, try to stick to grassy areas to avoid burning your pet’s paws.
• It’s best to keep pets indoors during extremely hot weather. However, if your pet must live outdoors ensure that he or she has adequate shade from the sun at all times.
• If you’re dog or cat has light-colored skin or fur, you may need to apply sunscreen to the tips of his ears and his nose.
• Be aware of the danger signs that your pet may be having a heat stroke. These include; excessive panting, bright red tongue, staggering and vomiting. If you think your pet is having a heat stroke, take her to a veterinarian immediately. Use cool water, not cold water, to cool your pet. Place wet towels on her head, chest and neck. Immerge her in cool, not cold, water, and offer her ice cubes to lick until you can get her to a veterinarian.
