Our pets can suffer from heat just as much as we can in the hot summer months; some dog breeds even more than others. It is our responsibility to ensure that our pets are not exposed to the elements that can cause heatstroke, and it is easier than you think to keep them cool.
Dogs are more susceptible to heatstroke than humans because they can only pant to cool off, where humans sweat. Pets can’t ask for water and they can’t say that they are too hot either. And because dogs are pleasers, they will continue to play in the heat – just to make you happy.
What to do
When it is a hot summer’s day, take your pets into consideration. You can keep them inside a cool house and increase the air circulation, or at least ensure that they have shady spaces to cool down. Always ensure that your pets have adequate water to drink and even add some ice cubes to the water bowls to keep the water cool. Small animals can be lightly sprayed with water and dogs can enjoy paddling pools to keep them cool.
Instead of going for a walk in the middle of the day, rather exercise early in the mornings or evenings when it is cooler. Then your dogs won’t exhaust or overheat themselves.
What not to do
Keeping cool is the most important part in preventing heatstroke, even with humans. Keep the following in mind and never, ever leave your pet in the car, not for five minutes and not even in the shade.
- Don’t travel in a car with no ventilation.
- Don’t go running with your dog at midday.
- Don’t allow your pet to exercise too much.
- Don’t leave your pet without adequate amounts of fresh water to drink.
Symptoms
There are a couple of symptoms that may suggest heatstroke. Read more of this article in the November 2018 issue of Animaltalk, or click here to subscribe.
