Heat Wave Tips

posted: Fri Jul 08 09:09:09 EDT 2016 by: Jill Farley Tags: "Clinic Specials" "News" 

Boy laying in grass with dog

The extreme heat and humidity we are experiencing is a great excuse to remind everyone to rethink their pet's situation. If your pet is outside for any significant amount of time you need to be sure that cool, fresh water is available and adequate shade. If your pet is older or infirm in any way you need to be sure that they can access all of that easily.

  Senior Care


 Long coated pets and short-muzzled, flat-faced (brachycephalic)  pets can be more affected.

Bulldog



The signs to watch for heat exhaustion/stroke are:

Excessive panting- This is because, unlike humans, dogs eliminate heat by panting. (Dogs have some sweat glands in the footpads which help with heat dissipation, but only minimally.)

Excessive drooling

Red gums versus the normal pink gums

Increased body temperature - above 103° F (39° C); if over 106 degrees F multiple organ dysfunction can occur.

If your pet is showing any sign of heat exhaustion, treat immediately by dampening with cool or tepid water (NOT ice, it could shock their system) and putting in front of a fan or in air conditioning. If the symptoms are concerning immediate veterinary treatment is necessary. Call to alert the animal hospital you are on the way and travel with your damp pet with air conditioning on or the windows down in your car. 

 
Let us make this summer heat as safe as possible for our beloved companions! 

Boy and a Cat