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As much of the Eastern seaboard labors through record breaking
temperatures, with cities as far north as Montreal experiencing 90
degrees or above, we'd like to offer a few
reminders for pet owners as to how to protect their pets during summer heatwaves:
Never leave your pets in a parked car. On a warm
day, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise rapidly to dangerous levels.
On an 85 degree day, for example, the temperature inside a car with the
windows opened slightly can reach 102 degrees within ten minutes. After
30 minutes, the temperature will reach 120 degrees.
Shade and water are a must. Anytime your pet is
outside, make sure he or she has protection from heat and sun (a
doghouse does not provide relief from heat) and plenty of fresh, cool
water. Heat stroke can be fatal for pets as well as people.
Limit exercise on hot days. Take care when
exercising your pet. Adjust intensity and duration of exercise in
accordance with the temperature. 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, and
short-nosed pets. Asphalt gets very hot and can burn your pet's paws.
Recognize the signs of heatstroke. In case of an
emergency, it's important to be able to identify the symptoms of heat
stress caused by exposure to extreme temperatures. When in doubt,
contact your veterinarian immediately. Some signs of heatstroke are:
heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, restlessness, excessive
thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse
salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, and unconsciousness.
If the animal shows symptoms of heatstroke, take steps immediately to
gradually lower her body temperature and contact your veterinarian as
soon as possible.
Follow these tips, and it could save her life:
- Move the animal into the shade or an air-conditioned area.
- Apply ice packs or cold towels to her head, neck and chest or
run cool (not cold) water over her.
- Let her drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice cubes.
- Take her directly to a veterinarian.
Article reprinted with permission form the Humane Society of the United States. Visit the HSUS online at www.humanesociety.org
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