Extreme heat now affects even larger areas of the globe, and pet owners have particular cause for concern.
Heat stroke can be fatal for dogs, cats, and other animals — but simple precautions can help them through a heat wave. Here’s what you need to know to keep your pets safe.
“If it feels too hot to you, it’s even worse for your pet
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Keep pets inside as much as possible.
Keep your pet in air-conditioned spaces for as much of the day as possible, and if you don’t have air-conditioning then place a fan near your pet. In general, keep pets in an area no hotter than 80 degrees, Dr. Hoggan said.
If you need to leave your pet outside, provide them ample shade and fresh water — and don’t leave them unsupervised for more than a few minutes, and make sure they are not directly in the sun, said Dr. Jerry Klein, the chief veterinary officer at the American Kennel Club.
For animals residing in cages, like rabbits, position a small fan nearby or place a frozen water bottle in their cage so they can cool themselves, Dr. Hoggan added. We found these nifty Ice Pods to try out.
Watch the clock and time your walks!
Especially in cities where hot sidewalks and pavement can burn and blister paws, avoid midday peak heat walks. Set an alarm to walk your dog early in the morning, via the shadiest route possible. Or simply stroll for after the sun goes down. You might also buy dog boots to protect their paws, said Dr. Lori Teller, incoming president of the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Be sure to not overexercise your dog, either — take frequent breaks, and carry water with you!
Don’t leave your pet alone in the car, even for a few minutes.
Don’t be this jerk…
“Every year, we say it, and every year people forget...
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Hundreds of pets die from heat exhaustion each year from being left in parked vehicles. Even if you crack the windows or park in the shade, the interior of a car can still reach 120 degrees in a matter of minutes, said Katie Wilkes, a spokesperson at the American Red Cross. So please — never leave your dog in a hot parked car.
Know which pets are at the highest risk.
Very old or very young animals on any pet with underlying health issues are at higher risk for heat stroke and exhaustion when the temperatures soar, Dr. Hoggan said. Dog and cat breeds with thicker coats, (think huskies, golden retrievers, and Siberian cats) are also at risk.
Animals with shorter snouts and “smushed” or squished faces — (pugs, English and French bulldogs, Boston terriers, and Persian and Himalayan cats — are extremely susceptible to heat, Dr. Teller said. Because they are not able to pant as effectively, and so they can struggle to regulate their temperatures. Make sure they spend as little time outside as possible, she advised.
Know the signs of overheating, and act quickly.
If your pet is panting excessively, with thick, ropy saliva, acting unusually lethargic, vomiting, or experiencing diarrhea, seek care immediately. In dogs, signs of heat stroke also include a deep red tongue and brick red gums. For cats, open-mouth breathing can indicate that they are too hot.
Animals with heat exhaustion or heat stroke may also act confused — cats and dogs may not respond to their names or simple commands, and some may stagger. “They may seem to not fully be with it,” Dr. Teller said.
Don’t delay care if your pet shows these signs. Moisten towels with cool water — not ice water — which can cause blood vessels to constrict — and wrap them around your pet. You can also buy cooling vests in pet stores, Dr. Teller said. Take them to a vet or animal hospital ASAP. The Red Cross has a pet safety app with instructions for animal first aid and a directory of local animal emergency resources.
“You don’t want to make a mistake that could potentially cost you your pet’s life,” said Ms. Wilkes.
