7 Tips that May Save the Life of Your Pet in Hot Weather
With the onset of hot weather in our area, protecting your pet from heat stroke is more important that ever. Here are 7 ways that may help save your pets life.
1. Always provide your animals with fresh water. Change the water through out the day to make it appealing to drink.
2. Direct sun can be a killer. Shade is a must when the sun is out.
3. Providing a comfortable, cool place to rest. A wet towel on the ground or child’s swimming pool can help.
4. Limit exercise in the heat. Plan for early morning or late evening events when temperatures are lower.
5. Some animals are more susceptible to heat issues. Animals that are older, very young, overweight, have other health issues or have short muzzles will have a much harder time cooling themselves.
6. Check on them frequently during the heat of the day for signs of heat stroke:
- Excessive panting and drooling
- Depression, weakness, dizziness
- Muscle tremors
- Bright red tongue, reddened or pale gums
- Increased body temperature above 103
- Decreased amount of urine, and sudden kidney failure
- Irregular or rapid heart rate
- fluid build-up in the lungs, sudden breathing distress
- Vomiting sometimes with blood
- Diarrhea possibly with passing blood or dark in colored stool
- Unconsciousness in which t he animal cannot be woken
- Seizures
7. At the first sign of heat stroke, cool your pet and seek medical attention since heatstroke is life threatening. Do not use ice to cool them as it can cause restriction of blood vessels.