Welcome to the June 2006 issue of Pet Lovers Tips and Trends

 

The old saying “It’s not the heat but the humidity that makes the summer months so miserable” applies not just to humans but pets as well. As humidity rises does will become less efficient at cooling themselves.  Just like us, dogs are cooled by evaporation.  The problem with humidity is that is decreases the evaporation and slows the cooling process. Dogs only have sweat glands on the pads of there feet, and on there nose, both of which are inadequate for cooling during hot and humid days. Panting helps dogs cool themselves but they still aren't as efficient at cooling themselves as people are.  A dog's heavy coat also works against the cooling process which makes them that much more prone to heat exhaustion.  There are several stages a dog suffering from heat exhaustion goes through. Heavy panting is the first. That soon gives way to huffing and puffing and the dog will lie down or collapse. If left untreated it will slip into unconsciousness and die. The first step pet owners should take if their dog is suffering from heat exhaustion is to cease all activity, get the animal out of the sun and give it water. The owner can then put the dog in the bath tub or let the garden hose run for a few seconds and then spray the dog down. Then it can be placed in front of a fan which will aid in evaporation.  Ice bags can also be placed around the dog's head and neck.  It is important to start the cooling process as soon as possible. 

There are several activities that can cause heat exhaustion in dogs, such as running, being outside for an extended period of time or just sitting in the sun for too long.  However the main cause for over-heated dogs is an avoidable situation that is all too common. A lot of the heat exhaustion cases we see are a result of dogs being left in a car.  A person can't crack the windows enough to cool down the dog without letting it out of the car. This is the worst case scenario and it only takes a few minutes before it becomes a matter of life and death.

 

Below is a list of the top 7 summer tips to help keep your pet safe.
 

1. Be certain that your outdoor pets have access to clean, fresh water at all times.
 
2. Make sure your pet has access to a shady area at all times of the day.  Even though your dog may be in the shade when you leave for work you have to remember that the sun will move in the late afternoon.  Do not allow your dog to be stranded in the hot sun.
 
3. If possible secure your pets water bowl to the ground so that it cannot be tipped over, if it is not possible dig a shallow hole in the ground for the bowl to sit, or purchase a bowl with a large “tip proof” bottom.  If your pet has a metal bowl we do not recommend drilling a hole to secure it.

5. If you run or job with your dog, remember to take frequent water breaks for both you and your dog.  You also have to remember the asphalt and concrete get very hot, your feet will be fine inside of your comfy tennis shoes, however your dog does not have that luxury.
 
6. During the summer months, mosquitoes are prevalent. Make sure your pet is tested by a veterinarian for heartworm disease (a mosquito-transmitted, often fatal disease) and begin heartworm prevention medication.
 
7. When the weather is dangerously hot, bring your pets inside.
 

 

 
If you have a topic or questions we can answer in our up coming newsletters send us an email to   editor@animalshelter.org