Who doesn't love summer? But the extreme heat can be dangerous for your dogs, cats and any other pets! Just like us, our pets are susceptible to heat stroke.It is very important to know the signs and symptoms of heatstroke and ways to prevent it.
Heatstroke is a very serious, life-threatening condition. It requires emergency treatment and if left untreated, it can lead to brain damage and even death. The normal temperature of dogs and cats is 38.3 to 39.2°C. If their core body temperature reaches 41.1°C, the animal is said to have heatstroke.
Some signs of heatstroke includes very red or pale gums, breathing distress, collapsing or lying down, excessive panting, lethargy, vomiting, little to no urine production and hot to touch. Get your pet out of the heat immediately and cool your pet's ears, paw pads and belly with cool water. Once your pet is stabilised, bring your pet to the vet immediately.
There are a few precautions you can take to keep your pets healthy and comfortable with the heat
If your pet are kept outdoors, make sure that they access to shady or cool areas with good ventilation all hours of the day
Never leave your pets in the car as temperature can rise extremely quick (even with windows down)
Avoid over exercising during in the intense afternoon heat. It is best to exercise your pets in the early morning or late evening hours. Dogs who are seniors, overweight, have thick fur, dark-coloured fur, or a pushed-in nose (such as boxers, pugs and bulldogs) are even more at risk of overheating.
When on walks, remember to bring water for both you and your pet
Check the pavement for heat before taking your dog out on a walk. Place your barefoot on the pavement for 10 seconds. If it is too hot for you to keep your foot on it, then it is too hot for your pet!
All pets should have access to fresh clean drinking water at all times
Recognise the signs of heatstroke
With that being said, here are some fun summer activities for you and your fur baby!
Mental Stimulation
Your pup can be challenged by mental games and it can really tire them out. You can test your dog's sniffing ability by hiding some treats around the house and let their little snout do the job! Another mental stimulation game would be working on the behaviours you've always wanted to reinforce. There are also many puzzle toys you can purchase or you can even DIY some boredom busters for them.
Water "Splish, Splash, I was takin a bath!"
Going to the beach for a short period of time would be an awesome and fun way for your pup to get that excess energy out whilst keeping cool. Your dog can more effectively dissipate heat when their fur is wet. Clamshell pools are a great way to provide dogs with their own puddle to play in too!
Be careful playing in the sun though, dogs can get sunburnt. So make sure to always stay in the shade and avoid playing in the middle of the day.
Remember if its too hot for us to stay in the yard, in the car or walk barefoot on the pavement, it is too hot for our fur babies!