For pets that are heat sensitive, the steamy summer months not only make their lives more uncomfortable, pets are risk of heatstroke – a potentially fatal condition.
Here are some tried and true techniques to help keep your pets from harm:
- First, make sure they have plenty of shade all day long. Just because they’re in a shady spot in the morning doesn’t mean the same spot will be shady later in the afternoon. Pets also need a cool surface to stand, sit and lay on. Asphalt, for example, can quickly burn the pads of their feet.
- Next, provide plenty of cool, fresh water several times a day. Make sure they can reach the water, and secure the water bowl so it can’t be overturned. Avoid ice water, though, as it causes problems for some pets.
- NEVER leave your pet in a parked car. The temperature on dark, leather seats exposed to the sun can reach 180 degrees Fahrenheit and hotter.
Still, how would you know if your pet is in the throes of heatstroke. In the early stages you’ll notice heavy panting, rapid breathing and a bright tongue and gums. Try to cool your pet down to prevent the condition from growing worse.
Symptoms of more advanced and dangerous levels of heatstroke include unwillingness to move, noisy breathing, and uncontrollable body functions.
To help your pet recover, the AKC advises you to apply ice packs to the groin area, douse it with water and allow it to lick ice cubes. If it can’t be cooled down and begins to show signs of advanced heatstroke, take the dog to an animal hospital as quickly as possible.
How about inside your home? Are conditions cool and comfortable for pets and humans alike? Eagle Service Company can help keep it that way with annual preventive maintenance, which features our multi-point cleaning and inspection service. If it’s been a year or longer since your last such service, why not call today to avoid problems later on.
