Hot Weather Hazards to Keep Pets Safe This Summer

                                                     Hot Weather Hazards to Keep Pets Safe This Summer

        South Central Pennsylvania has been in the midst of a heat wave this summer.  Pets can be susceptible to heat-related issues, to so it is crucial to be aware of these dangers to our pets. Let’s look at some tips to keep your pets safe and comfortable throughout the summer season.

1. Heatstroke:

     Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a pet's body temperature rises to dangerous levels due to excessive heat and humidity. Dogs, especially short-nosed breeds and those with dense haircoats are particularly susceptible to heatstroke because they primarily regulate their body temperature through panting, which may not be sufficient during intense heat and humidity. Elderly pets and very young pets are also at higher risk.  Cats are less susceptible to heat stroke but they CAN overheat, especially if trapped in a hot space like a shed or attic without water. 

     Signs of heatstroke include heavy panting or open mouth breathing, excessive drooling, bright red gums, confusion, lethargy, and staggering or unsteadiness. If left untreated, it can lead to seizures, organ failure, and even death.

What should you do if you suspect your pet is experiencing heat stroke?

     *DON’T use ice packs or feed your pet ice. This can drop their body temperature too rapidly.

     *DO offer water if the pet is conscious, not vomiting and willing to drink but DON’T force pets to drink.

     *DO wet your pet with tepid water or place wet towels against the belly and groin areas.

     *DO move to a cool, shady place or indoors with a fan or air conditioner.

     *DO GET TO A VET as soon as you can. Have windows down or the air conditioner on to keep your pet cool on the ride. It’s best to get your pet checked since sustained high body temperatures could lead to serious consequences like organ failure. HEAT STROKE IS AN EMERGENCY!

     Heat Stroke Prevention Tips: Avoid exercise during the hottest parts of the day, provide shade and fresh water, make sure pets can’t become trapped in barns or sheds, and NEVER leave your pet in a parked car for even a few moments, where temperatures can skyrocket rapidly even with the windows down. If you must leave a pet in a car, leave the car and air conditioner running.

2. Paw Pad Burns:

     Hot pavement and asphalt can cause severe burns to your pet's sensitive paw pads as can hot sand at the beach. When the ground temperature is high, it's essential to check the surface temperature before taking your pet for a walk. Burns on pads can cause blisters and peeling skin, pain, and lameness.

      Burn Prevention Tips: Walk your pets during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. If the ground is too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your pet's paws! Consider using protective booties to shield their paw pads or walk in the grass, not on the street. Use these same precautions at the beach.

       3.  Sunburn:

     Pets can get sunburned too! Light-colored pets or those with thin haircoats are more susceptible to sunburn. Sunburn can be painful and increase the risk of skin cancer, especially in white cats and dogs.

     Prevention Tips: Limit your pet's sun exposure during peak hours, provide shady spots in your backyard, and apply pet-safe sunscreen to exposed areas, such as the nose and ears.

     One final caution—Water Safety. Always supervise pets around pools—not all dogs can swim and pets could accidentally drown or become exhausted if they cannot get out.  And, use caution with garden hoses-they can become extremely hot in the sun and the water can cause burns. Run the hot water out of the hose before spraying your pet.

     Limit time outdoors during the hottest part of the day, keep pets off hot asphalt and walk during the early morning or late evening when it is cooler, and consider pet-friendly sunscreen for at-risk pets.  With proper precautions and care, we can protect our pets from the hot weather and allow them to enjoy a safe, fun summer!

This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.

https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/hot-weather-safety-tips

https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/healthcare/heat-exhaustion-in-dogs

https://www.preventivevet.com/cats/what-you-should-know-about-heat-stroke-in-cats

 https://www.cdc.gov/extreme-heat/risk-factors/extreme-heat-and-children.html