When the weather heats up, it’s only natural to want to go out for some fun in the sun. Many pet owners bring their furry companions along to enjoy outdoor activities. Be sure to practice safe hot weather habits when temperatures rise, as pets can suffer from dehydration, heat stroke, and sunburn if overexposed to heat. Business Consumer Alliance (“BCA”) shares these tips to help keep pets safe in hot weather.
- A visit to the veterinarian for a checkup is important. Make sure your pet is tested for heartworm if not on year-round preventive medication. If parasites or pests bug your pet, ask the vet to recommend a safe flea and tick control program.
- Keep Cool – Make sure your pet has a shady spot to relax, and bring them indoors if the weather is extreme. Since pets can become dehydrated quickly, have plenty of fresh water available.
- Watch for Warnings – Knowing the symptoms of overheating in pets can save their lives. Some warning signs to look for are excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, stupor or even collapse. Flat faced animals, such as Pug and Pekingese dogs and Persian cats, are more susceptible to heatstroke since they cannot pant as effectively. These pets should be kept cool in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible.
- Water Safety – Not all pets are natural swimmers. Just as with children, never leave your pet unattended around a pool. Never force an animal into a pool or body of water. Introduce them to water gradually and use floating devices when boating. Don’t allow pets to drink pool water as it can cause an upset stomach. Make sure to rinse excess chlorine off of your pet after swimming.
- Paw Protection – Hot asphalt and concrete can burn paws. Don’t let your dog linger on hot surfaces and keep walks short or avoid them during times when the temperatures are very high.
- Pet Parking – Never leave animals in a parked vehicle, even with the windows cracked. Not only is leaving a pet in the car dangerous, in many states it is illegal. Temperatures can rise excessively in minutes and your pet can suffer heatstroke, which can be fatal. Excess heat can also damage internal organs.
- Style No-No’s – While grooming your pet is recommended, it is generally best not to shave your pet. Dogs’ coats protect them from overheating and sunburn and a cat’s coat is also designed to keep it cool during the summer. Coats that are well brushed and not matted provide good air circulation through the hair, which can have a cooling effect. When you shave your pet, it interferes with this built-in temperature regulation. Only use sunscreen or insect repellent products specifically labeled as safe for use on animals.
- Party Animals – Hot days provide great conditions to throw a BBQ or outdoor party. Warn guests to avoid giving food or drink intended for humans to your pet as this may cause severe digestive ailments and may even be poisonous to your pet. Always keep alcoholic beverages away from animals.
If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke move the animal to a shaded or air-conditioned area. Apply ice packs or cold towels to their head, neck, and chest and run cool (not cold) water over them. Allow them to take small drinks of cool water or to lick ice cubes, and get help from your veterinarian immediately.
These simple precautions can help prevent your pet from overheating or being harmed when temperatures go up. Do you have tips to share? Share your ideas in the comments below and don’t forget to share this with others.
About the Author:
Nicole Pitts is a Senior Business Analyst and Writing Correspondent for Business Consumer Alliance. She has been with the organization for 13 years and specializes in report writing, business evaluation, and investigations. Nicole corresponds with businesses regarding complaint trends and provides suggestions to help them alleviate problem areas that may cause concern. She also conducts advertisement reviews, reports on government enforcement actions, and assists government agencies and the media in obtaining information. She enjoys reading, movies, and spending time with her family. Nicole may be reached by email at npitts@businessconsumeralliance.org.