Pet Summer Safety

Friends Fur-Ever

Keep these safety tips in mind this summer for your pets.

Story by House of Paws Veterinary Clinic | Photos by Topograph & Friends

Sign of heatstroke in dogs and cats

Heatstroke can be fatal if not treated quickly. Signs include:

• Panting

• Vomiting

• Excessive drooling

• Warm and dry skin

• Rapid heartbeat

• Staring and anxious expressions

• Uncoordinated movements or collapse

What should you do if they exhibit signs?

Call your veterinarian right away. In the meantime, you can:

• Apply towels soaked in cool water to the hairless areas of the body (tips and back of ears, foot pads, belly, and inner thighs).

• Do NOT use extremely cold water or completely immerse pets in water—this can create shock and worsen the problem.

• Use a fan to help cool the pet.

Note: Even if the pet seems to cool down, visit a veterinarian immediately, as body temperatures often spike again or cool below a safe, normal temperature.

1. Give your pet extra water.

Staying hydrated is crucial on hot days to avoid illness. Whether your pet is indoors or outdoors, be sure to fill their water bowls several times a day.

2. Walk your pet in the grass or the shade whenever possible.

If you need to take them outside to do their business, try wetting the surface to help make it a little cooler for them. A quick tip: if the pavement is too hot for your bare feet then it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.

3. Take extra care with older dogs and dogs with shorter noses.

Just like older humans, older dogs can be especially susceptible to higher temperatures. Certain breeds with shorter noses (like pugs and bulldogs) are at a greater risk of heatstroke.

4. Apply pet-safe sunscreen to your dog.

Sunburn can affect pets just like humans, causing pain, peeling, and skin cancer. Use a pet-safe sunscreen on unprotected areas, like the tips of the ears and nose, and the skin around the lips.

5. Don't overdo outdoor exercise

Walking your pet at dawn or dusk is safest. Dogs often don't know when they need a break, so it’s important to stop frequently in the shade and offer plenty of water. Avoid being outside between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.

6. Never leave your pet in the car.

Temperatures in a closed car can exceed 120 degrees in minutes. Cracking a window or parking in the shade does not help.*

*It's the law: Per law HB 2732, Good Samaritans can break windows to rescue unattended animals and children who appear to be in imminent danger. Good Samaritans who choose to rescue an animal or child must call law enforcement prior to breaking in and must stay near the car with the animal or child until the police arrive at the scene.