Training Academy

Stay Hydrated!

by Christina Laidley

Spending your long summer days outdoors with your furry companion is something a lot of us do quite often living in Florida. However, being overeager in hot weather can spell danger very fast.

Did you know that both cats and dogs can suffer from dehydration, sun burns, and even heat stroke? Yes, pets overexposed to heat can suffer from these medical conditions and they can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Today I’ll go over some precautions you could take to help prevent your pet from overheating. If you suspect that your beloved pet is suffering from a heat stroke, get help from your veterinarian immediately!!!

Now, first things first, knowing the warning signs. Symptoms of an overheated pet can be but not limited to excessive panting, increased respiratory rate, increased heart rate, difficulty breathing, red or pale gums, lethargy, mild weakness, drooling, stupor and even collapse. In serious cases of heat exposure pets can also develop bloody diarrhea, vomiting and even seizures. Pets with flat faces such as Bulldogs, Pugs and even Persian cats are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively. These pets, along with the elderly, the overweight, those with heart and or lung disease should be kept indoors, preferably in an air-conditioned room. Since pets can develop dehydration quickly, make sure they have plenty of fresh, clean water and a shady place to go to get out of the sun.

Giving your pet a lightweight summer haircut can also help prevent overheating. You can safely have your pet’s hair coat down to about a one-inch length, never to the skin, so your pet still has some protection from the sun. As far as skin care, be sure that any sunscreen or insect repellent used on your pets have been labeled specifically for use on animals.

When the temperature is very high, don't let your pets linger on hot pavements or asphalt. Since your pet is close the ground, their bodies can heat up quickly. Be careful not to over-exercise them in the heat. Paw pads can also burn so try to keep walks during these times to a minimum. Most importantly, NEVER, NEVER, EVER leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle even if the windows are open. Did you know that a parked car can become a furnace in no time? On an 85-degree Fahrenheit summer day, a car can reach 100 degrees in less than 10 minutes. In 30 minutes, the temperature can rise to as much as 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Be aware, an animal left in an unattended car can suffer from brain damage and die from heat stroke! 

Now with all these precautionary tips you have just learned, you are safely now equipped to go and enjoy your summer days with your pet. Remember to drink lots of water, stay hydrated, and always have proper shelter nearby. After all this is Florida; a hot summer day can quickly turn into a thunderous down pour within a couple of hours.