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Warm Weather Tips for your Pets
Learn more about warm-weather tips for your pets below.
Warm Weather Tips for your Pets
It’s time for fun in the sun, and with some careful planning, your pet can enjoy the summer as much as you do.
In this pet care tip, I want to cover Hyperthermia, which by definition means an elevated body temperature. This is more commonly referred to as Heat Stroke.
Dogs and cats have a higher normal body temperature than we do, typically between 101°F and 102.5°F. If their temperature gets above 105°F degrees, you have a true emergency.
The most common cause of heatstroke is being left in a parked car. Even in the shade, with the windows cracked, the temperature inside a car can reach up to 160°F in a very short time.
Another common cause is being left outside with inadequate shade and water. Dogs and cats do not have the ability to sweat to help them cool off; they can only pant, and if the temperature is too high, panting alone can’t cool them off fast enough.
Elderly pets, those with heart or respiratory problems, or brachycephalic (short-nosed dogs such as Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Pekingeses, or Persian-type cats) are the most susceptible.
Also, overweight pets that are not used to a lot of exercises, and have been active in high heat and/or humidity are more prone to heatstroke.
Signs of heatstroke include:
- extreme panting
- excessive salivation
- tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
- bloody vomiting
- seizures.
Eventually, internal organs may be damaged, and death may occur.
If you suspect heatstroke, get the pet to a cooler place immediately. You can always check their temperature with any human thermometer designed for rectal use, lubricated with a little Vaseline or KY Jelly.
Cool the pet with cool (not cold) water. Rubbing alcohol on the feet, stomach and ears will help, as will a fan.
Do not use cold or ice water, as this actually shuts down the blood vessels in the skin, so the cooler blood can’t circulate to the vital organs inside.
Get the pet to a veterinarian as soon as possible – this is a true emergency.
Avoiding heatstroke involves some common sense moves.
- Don’t leave your pet in a parked car.
- Be sure she has access to shade and water at all times in warm weather.
- Don’t go on long runs or walks in extreme heat.
- Plan ahead for warm weather.
Adapted by Dr. Kathy Kallay
LINKS USED IN THIS PAGE
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyperthermia