It is the second week of August in East Texas, when triple-digit temperatures are not forecasted, but highs in the 90s are slated throughout the week, and the heat is still ever-present.
High heat and humidity can be dangerous for pets, just as it is for humans. They can die from heat stroke, get dehydrated, and even get sunburned.
During the so-called “Dog Days of Summer,” it is ideal to keep your pets inside, in the air-conditioned atmosphere. If this is not feasible, make sure they have plenty of shade, and a full bowl of water. A good idea would be to get a kiddie pool, fill it with water, and keep it in the shade.
Please do not leave your dog in a hot car, even with the windows cracked; this will not prevent your pet from overheating or suffering a heatstroke; the interior temperature of a car can go from 80 to 120 in less than five minutes, even with the windows cracked. Extra care should be taken for older and or overweight pets. Asphalt can burn your dog’s paws. if the ground is too hot for you to go barefooted, it is too hot for your dog. If you must walk your dog, walk in grassy areas and use protective booties for their feet.
Animals don’t cool down by sweating. They have their own ways of cooling down, like panting, but it can be harder for them to regulate their body temperature in extremely high heat. Heat strokes happen when your dog’s body temperature rises to dangerous levels, and they can’t cool down. Symptoms of heat stroke in pets include: drooling, excessive panting, red gums, increased heart rate, vomiting, weakness, and seizures. If you think your dog is having a heat stroke, take them to a cool, shaded area, give them cool water, cover them with a cool wet towel, and call your vet for advice.
Your pet can get dehydrated in extremely hot weather fairly quickly if they don’t have enough water to drink. Plan on bring extra water when taking your dog out for a walk, or any other outdoor activities. Symptoms of dehydration in pets include: difficulty breathing, muscle tremors, excessive panting, lethargy, vomiting or diarrhea, dry nose, sunken eyes, or collapse. I cases of dehydration, offer small amounts of ice water, as giving too much water can cause them to vomit, making it worse.
The main thing to keep in mind is if it’s too hot for you to be outside, it’s too hot for your pet. Bear in mind that they can’t tell you their hot, and honestly, would you walk outside in 100-degree heat wearing a fur coat? Your pet does that and they can’t tell you that they are suffering. Even five minutes outside in extreme heat can be deadly for your pets.
