Summer pet safety: How to prevent heatstroke and other seasonal dangers
Most of us look forward to the warm summer months, but dog owners must be acutely aware of health dangers unique to the season. Hot summer temperatures can cause heatstroke in dogs.
The American Veterinary Medical Association defines heatstroke as “a severe, life-threatening form of non-pyrogenic hyperthermia with a rapid, excessive rise in body temperature typically above 105°F when the dog's thermoregulatory mechanisms fail to dissipate accumulated heat, often accompanied by neurological dysfunction.” The ability to rapidly recognize heatstroke and begin treatment is vital to increasing the chances of saving your dog’s life.
Dr. Ashley Rossman, DVM, says heatstroke indicators may include difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, heavy panting, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, glazed eyes, dizziness, lack of coordination, drooling, vomiting, a dark red or purple tongue, seizure and unconsciousness.
“When dogs pant, moisture from their tongue evaporates which helps regulate their body heat. High humidity conditions limit that process and their ability to cool themselves, and their body temperature can rapidly reach dangerous or even fatal levels,” Rossman said. “Pets react much differently to heat than humans do.”
Here are some tips to keep dogs safe — and cool — during the hottest days of the year.
Limit exercise on hot days
Modify exercise time according to the temperature. On hot days, limit exercise to early morning or cooler evening hours. Avoid hot asphalt surfaces and walk your dog on the grass instead. Bring a water bottle with you.
Provide shade and water
When outdoors, make sure your dog has protection from heat and sun and access to clean water. Shade from trees or tarps is best because air flow is not restricted. Doghouses do not provide relief from heat.
Age and weight may impact heatstroke
Rossman notes that animals are at particular risk for heat stroke if they are very young, elderly, overweight, or have heart or respiratory issues. Brachycephalic breeds such as bulldogs and boxers with short muzzles may have difficulty breathing in extreme heat.
How to treat a pet suffering from heatstroke
Rest your pet in the shade or an air-conditioned room. Apply ice packs or cold towels to paw pads, head, neck, chest, and groin or pour cool water over him. Provide small sips of cool water. Then transport to a veterinarian.
More advice from the veterinarian
• Never leave your pets alone in a parked vehicle. This could result in fatal heatstroke and is illegal in many states.
• Shaving your dog is not recommended, but trimming its coat is fine.
• Keep pets far away from insecticides, citronella candles, insect coils, grills and fire pits.
• Any sunscreen or insect repellent applied to pets must be specifically labeled for animal use.
• Pets must be supervised around pools because of the potential for drowning. Be certain dogs wear flotation devices when on watercraft. Bathe your dog thoroughly after swimming to remove chlorine or salt from its fur and don’t allow your dog to drink pool water, which contains chlorine and other chemicals.
• Some food and drink served at barbecues can be poisonous to pets. Alcoholic beverages may cause vomiting, intoxication and coma. Do not let your dog eat raisins, grapes, onions, garlic, nuts, chocolate or foods sweetened with Xylitol. Immediately call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 if you suspect your dog has consumed a toxic substance.
• Fourth of July fireworks can be terrifying for dogs. Many pets are fearful of loud noises and can become lost, frightened, or disoriented. Keep dogs safe from noise in a quiet, sheltered and escape-proof area of your home.
With proper precautions, you and your pets will enjoy a safe and healthy summer.
Dr. Ashley Rossman, DVM, is a licensed veterinarian and co-owner of Glen Oak Dog and Cat Hospital in Glenview, Illinois. The advice contained in this article is for informational purposes only. Readers should consult with a veterinarian to evaluate their pet’s illness or medical condition.