With the recent extreme heat, it is essential to take extra steps to prevent heatstroke in pets. As the season intensifies, many owners remember to watch over their animals, but it is equally important to keep an eye on their wellbeing as temperatures rise.
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Dogs and cats react to heat and dehydration much like humans do. They cannot sweat efficiently; their main cooling mechanism is panting, and they only sweat through the pads of their paws. This limited cooling ability makes it harder for them to regulate body temperature in hot conditions.
Some pets are more prone to heatstroke, including older animals, those with excess body fat, or pets with breathing or heart problems, flat-faced breeds, or a history of heat-related illness. Extra care should be taken with these animals when hot days arrive.
The trick to prevent your dog from burning his paws in the heat wave
The safety guidance focuses on practical actions that reduce heat exposure and support hydration for dogs and cats alike.
To prevent incidents, a series of practical tips can help pets stay safe during heat waves.
- Never leave a pet in a closed car. It may seem obvious, but this is a leading cause of heat-related deaths among animals during summer. Studies show that car interiors can reach oven-like temperatures very quickly when parked in the sun.
- Avoid walking a dog during the hottest hours. Dogs enjoy exercise and companionship, but walking at noon is risky. If a walk is necessary, choose early morning or late evening, and seek shaded routes for shorter durations.
- Consider a light grooming approach. Cutting hair is not advised to the bone; a pet’s coat helps shield from heat and sun. A moderate trim may be appropriate, but excessive shaving should be avoided to protect the skin from sunburn and to maintain natural insulation.
- Ensure fresh water is always available. Hydration matters even when temperatures are mild. Water should be refreshed regularly to stay clean and appealing for pets.
- If it feels too hot, rinse the head and neck with cool water to help cool the body.
- Limit activity on very hot days. Avoid strenuous exertion in extreme heat to prevent overheating and stress.
- Feed pets during cooler parts of the day. Morning or evening meals aid digestion when the body is not battling high temperatures.