Keeping Your Pet Cool When It's Hot

When the weather is warm, it is up to you to keep your pet cool. Cats and dogs can't sweat the way humans to do keep themselves cool. If your pet becomes overheated, they can suffer heatstroke, which can cause them to become sick. Heatstroke can also cause organ failure and even death. When the temperature outdoors spikes, there are a few things that you can do to keep your pet cool. If you aren't careful, your pet could require emergency care at Friendship Animal Hospital.

Keep Your Pet Indoors

On hot days, it is best to keep your pet inside. Even if your pet finds a spot in the shade, it can still be dangerously hot. If your pet needs to be outdoors, make sure to leave enough water to keep your pet hydrated. To keep the water cold, you can put ice cubes in the water that will melt over time. Also, you can put a kiddie pool of water in the yard for your pet to cool off in.

Keep Your Dog's Walks Short

When taking your dog for a walk on a hot day, you should keep it short. Give your dog enough time to relieve themselves and end the walk there. You can make up for the exercise that your dog missed when the heatwave is over.

Keep Your Home Cool

On a hot day, the temperature inside the house can be just as dangerous. If you don't have the air conditioner on, you should keep the curtains closed to keep the sun from coming in. Also, keep a fan on so that the air is circulating. Finally, make sure that there is a supply of cold water in your pet's bowl.

Leave Your Dog Home

Many dogs love to go for rides in the car. If you have errands to run on a hot day, you should leave your pet at home. If the temperature outside is between 80 to 100 degrees, the temperature in the car can quickly climb to 130 to 172 degrees. Because these temperatures are deadly, it is best to leave your dog home. You can make it up to them when the heat breaks.

Recognize the Signs Of Heat Stroke

It is up to you to keep your pet cool, and also to be able to recognize the signs of heatstroke. The symptoms include:

Excessive panting

Excessive salivating

Showing signs of pain or discomfort

Vomiting or diarrhea

Disorientation

Seizures

If you are worried that your pet has heatstroke, you should take them to see our veterinarian at Friendship Animal Hospital in Pineville. Our veterinary professional can provide essential pet care to save your pet's life.