Our pets are particularly vulnerable. Many animals—especially those outdoors—struggle to keep cool because they can’t process heat as effectively as we do.
Here are some tips for keeping your fur-covered friend safe when the weather is warm:
Never leave your pet in the car on warm, or even sunny spring and summer days
.
Even with a window cracked on a 70-degree day, the interior of your car can reach 100 degrees in as little as 20 minutes.
Hot asphalt will scorch your pet’s paws. Before you head out for a walk, put your own palm on the pavement—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pooch.
Do not shave or trim your pet. A pet’s coat is an important part of her natural cooling system, as it protects the skin from the sun.
Watch your pets carefully around swimming pools, lakes, and ponds. Ideally, personal backyard pools should be gated to restrict access. Not all pets are good swimmers, and drownings can happen swiftly and without warning.
During these hot days, make sure to exercise your pet in the cooler morning and evening hours, provide plenty of cool, fresh water and shade. It’s also important that you be able to recognize the warning signs of heatstroke and exhaustion. They include:
Anxiousness
Excessive panting
Restlessness
Excessive drooling
Unsteadiness
Abnormal gum and tongue color
These symptoms can quickly advance to seizures, collapse, vomiting, and bloody diarrhea. If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms, call us immediately at (925) 240-7387. We’re here for you!
