As the thermometer climbs, so do the number of risks and dangers for our pets.
🌡️ Heat-Related Health Problems Pet experts say hot weather can lead to a host of health problems like heat stroke, burns, and critters like ticks and fleas.
🏥 Stay Hydrated Patricia Holm, owner of Auburn Animal Clinic, emphasizes that prevention is both easy and important. “It’s important to make sure the pet has plenty of fresh cool water and that it is very clean and not anything that has been sitting for days,” Holm said.
🚗 Never Leave Pets in Cars Holm emphasizes that people should never leave pets in cars. The Humane Society of the United States says that on an 85-degree day, the temperature inside a car with the windows opened slightly can reach 102 degrees within 10 minutes. This can cause organ damage for your pet.
🏃 Limit Exercise Holm also recommends limiting pet exercise on hot days and making sure their breathing isn’t too labored. Often on sweltering days, pavement temperatures can scald your pets’ paws. Experts suggest laying the back of your hand on the pavement to check its temperature. If the surface is too hot for you, it will be too hot for them.
✂️ Consider Grooming While many pet owners get their animal’s fur shaved during the summer, Holm says that may not always be the best option because their skin can burn. On very hot days, limit exercise to early morning or evening hours, and be especially careful with pets with white-colored ears, who are more susceptible to skin cancer. Pets should also be well-groomed and regularly checked for fleas, ticks, and other pests. If a pet’s fur gets matted and the mats get soiled or wet, they can become a breeding ground for maggots. Pet parents are also urged to get their furry friends on preventative medicine for heartworm and fleas.
🐶 Know Your Pet’s Needs “Your pets’ needs are all different. A husky will have a harder time out in the heat with a huge heavy coat compared to a chihuahua. So, it’s important to know your pet and know their needs before being out in the heat for a long time,” said Amber Pinnon, adoption supervisor for Winnebago County Animal Services.
📚 For More Information For more information about how to protect your pet during the dog days of summer, visit the Humane Society’s website.
