07/30/2025
🐾With high temperatures, our furry friends feel the heat even more than we do! During a heatwave, it's crucial to keep pets safe by limiting their time outdoors, providing ample fresh water, and ensuring they have access to shade and cool areas. Pay close attention to signs of overheating and seek veterinary care if needed. 🐾
Here's a more detailed guide:
1. Keep Pets Indoors 🏠
* The safest place for pets during a heatwave is indoors, ideally in air-conditioned spaces.
* If your home isn't air-conditioned, use fans, provide shaded spots, and consider cooling mats or damp towels.
* Keep windows secured with screens to prevent falls.
2. Limit Outdoor Time 🏞️
* Walk pets during the coolest parts of the day, like early morning or late evening.
* Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat.
* If you must be outside, ensure your pet has access to shade and water.
3. Hydration is Key 💦
* Always provide fresh, cool water, and consider adding ice cubes to their water.
* Place water bowls in multiple locations.
* Carry water and a bowl on walks.
* Be aware of the amount of water your pet needs.
4. Watch for Signs of over heating 🥵
* Excessive panting or difficulty breathing.
* Drooling.
* Lethargy or weakness.
* Glazed eyes or a rapid heartbeat.
* Vomiting or diarrhea (possibly bloody).
* Changes in gum color (pale or darkening)
* Seizures or collapse.
5. Never Leave Pets in Cars 🚗
* Even with the windows cracked, car temperatures can rise rapidly and become dangerous.
* It's illegal in many states to leave pets unattended in vehicles.
6. Special Considerations 🐾
* Flat-faced breeds: Dogs like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers, and cats like Persians, are more susceptible to heatstroke because they can't cool down as effectively by panting.
* Elderly, overweight, or pets with pre-existing conditions: These pets are also more vulnerable and need extra care.
* Hot surfaces: Be mindful of hot asphalt or pavement that can burn paws.
7. Cooling Measures 🧊
* Use cooling vests or mats.
* Give your pet a cool (not cold) bath or mist them with water.
* Consider frozen treats or pupsicles for dogs.
8. Other Tips ✂️
* Don't shave double coated dogs during the summer. The coat provides insulation and is important for their natural heat regulation, but you can trim longer hair.
* Keep an eye on your pet, and if you suspect heatstroke, seek veterinary care immediately. Vector
