Protect your Pets from Summer Heat

As the weather heats up, make sure your pets can withstand the heat!

 

Dogs and cats cannot sweat like humans do and therefore can overheat quickly. Pets most at risk for overheating are young or elderly animals, overweight animals, those with short muzzles and those with thick or dark-colored coats.

Never leave your pet in the car. On an 85 degree day, it only takes 10 minutes for the inside of a car to reach 102 degrees, even if the windows are left open a few inches. Within 30 minutes, the inside of a car can reach 120 degrees.

Even in pleasant 70 degree weather, the temperature inside a car can be 20 degrees hotter.

Make sure your pet has access to shade and water whenever outside. Do not exercise your dog in the middle of the day or immediately following a meal. Hot asphalt and tar can burn your pet’s sensitive paw pads, so walk your dog on grass or dirt whenever possible.

Signs that your pet is overheating include panting, lethargy and unresponsiveness. If you suspect your pet is overheated, bring the body temperature down by rinsing the animal in cool (not ice) water and seek immediate veterinary care.

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