Wasson Memorial Veterinary Clinic

HOT WEATHER

Every year, many pets suffer and die from heat exhaustion because their
owner thought it would be "OK" to leave the pets in the vehicle. Nothing is
further from the truth. Below are several tips and ideas to ensure your pet's
safety during the hot summer months.

• Never leave your pet in the car. The sun can raise the temperature in the car to
120 degrees Fahrenheit within minutes. • Your pet needs access to lots of fresh water during
the summer, so check water bowls several times a day to be sure it's full. If you go outside, be
sure to bring plenty of water for both of you. • If they're extra thirsty, pets are bound to drink
something they shouldn't drink. Puddles of what looks like water may be on the ground, but
they may include antifreeze or other dangerous chemicals. Antifreeze has a sweet taste to dogs
and cats, but it is toxic and can kill. • Your pet can get sunburned, and can cause some of the
same problems as with people: pain, peeling, and skin cancer. Keep your pet out of the sun
between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. When you do go outside, rub a bit of pet safe sunblock on
unprotected areas like the tips of the ears, the skin around the lips, and the tip of the nose.
Some sunblock can be dangerous to your pets. A rule of thumb: If it's safe for babies, it's safe
for your pets. • Don't overdo it in the heat. Keep walks to a gentle pace. If your pet is panting a
lot or seems exhausted, it's time to stop. • Even if they're in the shade, animals can get sick
quickly on hot days. Keep them inside as much as possible. If you have to leave them outside,
check on them regularly.

• Watch for Heatstroke - It can be fatal! If you suspect your pet has heatstroke, call a
veterinarian immediately. In the meantime, lower the animal's body temperature by applying
towels soaked in cool water to the hairless areas of the body. Often the pet will respond after
only a few minutes of cooling, only to falter again with his temperature soaring back up or
falling to well below what is normal. If you suspect that your pet is suffering from heat stroke,
contact your veterinarian immediately