Summer Heat Can Be Deadly to Pets

The following was reported by Leslie Yager:

As the dangerous heat returns and the hot days of summer come upon us, there are some simple ways to ensure your pet avoids heat-related injuries.

"It’s less than a week into summer and we’ve already seen multiple cases of heatstroke at several of our locations," said Dr. Neil Shaw, chief medical officer of Blue Pearl Veterinary Partners in a release. "It’s very important for people to remember that their pets are sensitive to the heat."

It's best to keep pets in an air conditioned environment during the heat of the day and limit strenuous activities such as running and playing and limit any outdoor play to early morning or late day.

If your pet does become overheated, spray the animal down with room temperature or cool water, but never ice water, advises Dr. Shaw. Ice cold water causes a decrease in blood flow to the skin and heat can’t escape the body, which makes heat exhaustion symptoms worse.

Other tips from Dr. Shaw of Blue Pearl include:

• No Sports drinks or electrolyte supplements. Dogs cool off by panting and they do not sweat like people. So do not give sports drinks or electrolyte supplements to pets. That type of drink can harm animals and make pets sick.
• Watch for lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea and dark red gums are all signs of heat related distress. If your pet is panting uncontrollably or collapses, take the animal to your veterinarian or nearest emergency veterinary hospital immediately.
• Water! Pet owners should also remember to make sure their pets have access to plenty of water at all times. 
• Never leave your pet locked in a vehicle with the windows closed.