June 23, 2010
Hot Fun in the Summertime: Pet Safety Tips
As summer gets into full swing, the ASPCA wants to remind pet parents that our four-legged friends can be harmed by hot weather just like we can: dehydration, heat stroke and sunburn can take a toll on even the healthiest cat or dog. Keep your animal companions happy and safe by taking these simple precautions:
Made in the Shade
Pets can get dehydrated quickly, so give them plenty of fresh, clean water when it's hot. Make sure your pets have a shady place to get out of the sun, be careful to not over-exercise them, and keep them indoors when it's extremely hot.
Know the Warning Signs
Symptoms of overheating in pets include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, stupor or even collapse, seizures, bloody diarrhea and vomit, along with an elevated body temperature of over 104 degrees. Remember, animals with flat faces, like Pugs and Persian cats, are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively.
No Parking!
Never leave animals alone in a parked vehicle. "On a hot day, a parked car can become a furnace in no time—even with the windows open—which could lead to fatal heat stroke," says Dr. Louise Murray, Director of Medicine at ASPCA Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital. Leaving pets unattended in cars in extreme weather is illegal in several states.
Beware of "High Rise Syndrome"
"During warmer months, we see an increase in injured animals as a result of 'High-Rise Syndrome,' which occurs when pets fall out of windows or doors and are seriously or fatally injured," says Dr. Murray. This condition is completely preventable. Keep all unscreened windows or doors in your home closed and make sure adjustable screens are tightly secured.
Summer Style
Giving a dog a summer haircut—not too short, so they still have some protection from the sun—and brushing cats can prevent problems caused by excessive heat. As far as skin care, be sure that any sunscreen or insect repellent product you use on your pets is labeled specifically for use on animals.
Please visit our website's Pet Care section for our complete list of hot weather safety tips!