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If your pet spends lots of time outdoors, make sure there is adequate shelter for protection from the sun and heat. Outside kennels need to be well ventilated and situated in shaded areas. Clean, fresh water must be accessible at all times.
On hotter days, monitor your pet's activity and be careful they don't over exert themselves. Watch for signs of heat stress, excessive panting, disorientation, staring or anxious expression and weakness. Bring your pet to a cool area, gradually lower your pet's temperature by sponging cool water onto him/her and call your vet immediately.
When the heat and humidity rise, be especially careful with short-nosed dogs (pugs, bull-dogs, etc.) and older animals. Exercise your pets in the early morning and/or evening to avoid the midday heat.
Sun-baked asphalt can burn paws - keep to the grass, but make sure to watch out for pesticide warnings. Our part of the country has intense summers, and they’re just as intense for pets as they are for people!
Published 04/04/07
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