The summer months have arrived, and pet owners are looking forward to the activities outdoors that they have planned for themselves and their canine companions. At Animal Hospital in Fairfield, we are also very enthusiastic about spending quality time with our pets during the summer season, and we would like to share some facts and information about how to keep our pets safe when the temperatures rise. When the heat is on, we encourage our clients and fellow pet-parents to read these tips and strategies about protecting our animals from dangerous temperatures and excessive heat during the summer.
Exercise in the Summer Months
Here in Solano County, the midsummer temperatures can be sweltering- sometimes over 100 degrees. Therefore, we must always consider the effects that hot weather can have on our pets, be aware of their vulnerabilities, and continuously plan ahead for our pets’ well-being. Going for walks, jogs, and hikes with your dog is a great way to bond with your pooch and stay active. During the summer months though, it is best to choose certain times of day to exercise with your dog, and also to limit the amount of exercise that you and your pet partake in.
- Time of Day- The best time to take your dog out to exercise is early in the morning when the air is still cool, or, late in the evening when temperatures have dropped. Your dog will thank you for not exercising heavily with him or her during midday hours when the sun is blazing!
- Exercise type—Dogs to not process heat the same ways we do and it can be very difficult for canines to cool themselves down while they are exerting high amounts of energy while in the heat. When it is hot, it is crucial to keep the intensity of outdoor playtime at low, and to take frequent breaks for cooling off.
- Route you take- if you are taking your dog onto asphalt or a paved walkway for your daily stroll outdoors, make sure to check the temperature of the pavement before you allow your dog to step onto the surface. The cement and tar on roads and sidewalks can become blisteringly hot, and can burn the paw pads on your dog’s feet- so make sure to always touch the pavement with the back of your hand first to test the temperature. If you can keep the back of your hand on the pavement comfortably for 7 seconds, then it should be safe for your dog’s paws as well. Remember: Check, then Step.
If you live in an area that allows you to hike or walk on natural trails, it is wise to select parks or courses that have shaded areas throughout. Below is Jade, a Siberian Husky who loves to hike- and her owner has chosen a safe walking trail that allows her to take a break and sit in the shade if she needs to.
- Always bring Water- It is very important to always bring water with you when you go take any expedition outdoors with your dog. Allow frequent water breaks, and every time you take a sip of water, give your dog a drink as well. Remember-staying hydrated is just as vital to our pets’ health as it is for us! To the left, Jade is happy to have a sip of water before she continues with walking.
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Staying Cool during Downtime
Home Environment- If your pet typically hangs out in the yard or someplace outdoors while you are not home, make sure that your pets always have access to fresh water that has been placed in a temperature controlled area. For example, do not leave water bowls and dishes in the sun because the heat can make the water too hot, and pets will not drink, or the water might evaporate. Also make sure that your pet has a shaded area to retreat from the hot sun. Dogs that are unable to cool themselves down or unable to relocate out of the sun are easily vulnerable to sicknesses brought on by heat.
Parked Vehicles- Never, ever leave your pets alone in a hot car. Leaving pets locked in cars is never safe, but when the weather gets warmer, high temperatures can cause irreparable organ damage- and can even cause death. It doesn't have to be that warm outside for a car to become dangerously hot inside. Here are some facts: - When it's 72 degrees Fahrenheit outside, the temperature inside your car can heat up to 116 degrees Fahrenheit within an hour.
- When it's 80 degrees Fahrenheit outside, the temperature inside your car can heat up to 99 degrees Fahrenheit within 10 minutes.
- Rolling down the windows has been shown to have little effect on the temperature inside a car.
At-risk groups: The Real Hot Dogs
During the summer, it is good to know that certain breeds of dogs can actually be more susceptible and at-risk for experiencing heat-related illnesses. Dogs in the following categories are at an increased risk for heat-related illness:
- Brachycephalic breeds, or more commonly known as the “smoosh-faced” breeds, do not breathe as easily and have more difficult cooling themselves by panting. Brachycephalic breeds include English and French Bulldogs, Pekingese, Lhasa Apso, Bull Mastiffs, and Charles King Spaniels, Pugs, and Shih Tzus.
- Dogs who are obese are much more prone to overheating
- Older dogs are, in general, less resilient, and more easily affected by the heat and complications from overheating.
When It’s Too Hot For Spot
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During the hottest time of the year, the most common illnesses that our pets are at risk for are heatstroke, heat exhaustion and dehydration. Heatstroke and heat exhaustion are very serious medical emergencies, and symptoms include very rapid panting, a bright red tongue, red or pale gums, and thick, sticky saliva. The dog may also show signs of lethargy, weakness and dizziness, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you suspect your dog is suffering from heat stroke, fast action might save their life-you should seek veterinary care right away.
Depending on the circumstance it may be necessary to try and cool your dog down before you can get to a veterinarian, and this can be done by removing the dog from the hot area immediately, and pouring cool or tepid water (not ice cold) over the animal’s body. For a large dog, a hose may be necessary to get them wet all over. Using ice water on an overheated pet can actually make the situation worse, so make sure you douse him or her in water that is close to room temperature. The additional use of a fan blowing cool air will also help.
When a pet with heat stroke is brought into a veterinary hospital, the first priority will be lowering the body temperature to a safe range, and the animal may be given fluids and/or oxygen. A pet brought to a hospital for heat stroke will be monitored for shock, respiratory distress, or kidney failure.
We hope you can use these tips to safely enjoy summer with your furry friends!