Extreme heat can devastate your pet
Spring was in the air and again a wonderful summer had started, according to the meteorological service, summer begins June 1. Many people prepare for this time of the year, it is the time for summer parties, barbeques, picnics, vacations, and sprucing up the home interior and exterior. Sunscreen lotion is essential for the summer to prevent sun damage to the skin and people fill cars and bags with this item.
What about pets? How do you prepare for them during the hot summer? While your beloved furry friend does not need sunscreen, some things are necessary for them during the warmer months. According to Animal Hospital Padre Island, animals risk getting a heat stroke at elevated body temperatures, and some breeds of dogs, cats, and rabbits have a higher risk. Old and young animals are susceptible.
Heat affects dogs and cats
Extreme heat can devastate your pet, according to the animal hospital, when animals pant, moisture from their lungs evaporates and helps reduce their body heat. But high humidity conditions hamper that process and their ability to cool themselves, and their body temperature can quickly increase to dangerous fatal levels. Knowing your animal’s temperature will help, a dog’s temperature should not reach 104 degrees.
The temperature where they live determines to a greater degree their tolerance for certain temperatures, dogs in Jamaica a very hot tropical climate will be able to tolerate a higher temperature versus dogs in New York. There are some clear signs that your dog is in distress from heat such as weariness, constant panting, rapid breathing, trembling, loose stool, upset stomach, salivating, extreme agitation, and no interest in meals or play.
Cats groom their fur to keep cool the saliva evaporates off their fur. Some cats are unable to escape heat hence getting a heat stroke. Outdoor cats are more at risk as they exercise a lot during hot days, sometimes unable to find adequate shade and water. Certain breeds of cats struggle to breathe on humid days.
Keeping pets safe
Don’t leave pets in vehicles unattended especially for long periods even if the windows are down. If it’s hot outside it is even hotter in the vehicle without air conditioning running. If it is cold outside, it will be freezing inside the vehicle. Limit your pet roaming in harsh weather, at times pets stray for long distances, and if in distress you will not be able to assist. During high temperatures it is best to keep the pet indoors, cats like to sit near windows but it’s best to discourage this as the window area has a higher temperature.
Pavements carry higher temperatures whether hot or cold, during a heat wave put shoes on the dog and walk the animal in the early morning or later in the afternoon when the temperature falls. Always have plenty of water available for the pets. Cooling and heat mats are essential for pets, this provides lots of comfort during hot or cold temperatures. Dogs are at peace when resting on these mats because their entire body is cool or warm. A very good brand to purchase is Zonli.
Travelling with pets
If you have to travel with your pet, please do your homework before leaving home. Based on your destination research accommodation, restaurants, and other places where you can take your animals and what restrictions apply. To make this assignment easier I recommend you try Henri Trip it is a good tool for planning a trip easily and quickly, and for finding the best activities in your destination. Some places as part of their advertisement will indicate if pets are allowed so look out for this information.
Remember to take plenty of food, water, toys, and a cooling or heating mat for your pet. Check for the nearest veterinarian hospital or office where you stay just in case your pet happens to be in distress.
Pet owners must be aware of Climate Change and how it is changing temperatures and weather patterns, and quickly adapt to new ways to keep their pets safe and comfortable. Technology such as heating and cooling mats should be a must-have. Please speak to the pet’s veterinarian about climate change, I am sure you will be provided with loads of information to assist you.
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