Photo by Michelle Rasberry, staff Boone, a Red Bone Coon Hound pup, sneaks a drink and a quick cool down in the sprinkler.
When the temperature starts to heat up outside, we know how to cool ourselves down.But, when it comes to our pets, we may not always think about how the heat affects them.
Kennett Humane Office, Tena Petix offered some tips to keep pets cool, happy and healthy during the dog days of summer.
"It is extremely important to always provide plenty of cool, fresh water and lots of shade," she said.
Those pesky insects that are annoying to people, can potentially be deadly to pets.
Heartworm is a deadly disease that is transmitted by mosquitoes. It is important to discuss heartworm testing and preventative with your veterinarian. Flea and tick preventative should be discussed as well.
"Flies are bad in hot weather and can cause open wounds and even cause the tips of the ears to be eaten off," Petix said.
Fly repellent for pets can be purchased at veterinarian offices or retail stores. "It is certainly cheaper than a trip to see the judge for animal neglect," she advised.
"Animals left in cars is a danger, and illegal," Petix warned.
While the temperature outside may only be 80 degrees, inside the car it could be well over 100 degrees, which is why pets should never be left inside a parked car. "The body temperature of a dog left in a car for 10 minutes can reach 102 degrees, within 30 minutes it can be around 120 degrees. At 110 degrees your pet may just have minutes to live," Petix said. "Heat stroke can happen leading to brain damage and an agonizing death," she added. Petix said it is best to play it safe and leave your dog at home if you think you might have to leave him in the car.
Petix also said if it's too hot outside, keep them home. "They're happier and more comfortable at home than out in the hot weather."
"The best way to determine if it is too hot for your pet is to ask yourself 'would I trade places with my pet?' and be honest with your answer," Petix said.
If pets must be kept outside, make sure they have plenty of shade and a constant supply of fresh water available. "Ice can be added to water to keep it at a drinkable temperature," Petix said. "Also, a child style swimming pool can allow them a place to cool down," she added.
"Save long walks for early morning or evening when it's cooler, and don't walk pets on hot pavement," Petix warns.
"Most people don't take it into consideration, because they have shoes on. Take off your shoes and see what happens to your feet," she said.
Water safety for dogs has many similarities to water safety for children. Never throw a dog into the water, especially if it is their first attempt at swimming. Introduce them slowly in shallow water to ensure a positive experience. Dogs should always wear a flotation device when they are on a boat.
Do not leave dogs unattended by pools or bodies of water. Not all dogs are good swimmers, and those that are can tire out quickly.
Brachycephalic dogs such as Bulldogs and Pugs have a harder time breathing and panting so keep these types of dogs out of the heat and in the air conditioning.
The heat also can be harder on overweight and senior pets, so they should also be kept in the air conditioning as much as possible.
"Know the signs of overheating," said Petix. Early symptoms of heatstroke include rapid breathing and excessive drooling. Advanced symptoms include white gums, lethargy and shock.
"If you suspect your dog is overheating, immediately try to cool him down and contact your veterinarian," she advised.
Source: http://www.dddnews.com/story/1977861.html
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