Did you know that #pets can get sunburns, too? Hairless, white- or thin-coated breeds and those with light-pigmented noses and eyelids are especially at risk. To keep your furry friends #safe, consider applying a #sunscreen formulated for your #pet. Also note that while it may seem like a good idea to give your pet a summer haircut, don’t do it for breeds with double coats such as golden retrievers and huskies; their coats provide protection from sunburn, extreme heat and extreme cold. Ask your veterinarian if your furry friend would benefit from a good grooming or sunscreen during the #dog days of #summer. #DogDays #PetSafety
Tag: humid
Don’t Leave Pets Unattended in a Vehicle
Never leave a pet unattended inside a vehicle. Interior temperatures can rise quickly to life-threatening levels even when the outdoor temperatures are relatively comfortable. The interior temperature of a vehicle parked in in 70° weather will exceed 100° in less than 30 minutes, according to studies cited by the American Veterinary Medical Association, and if the outdoor temperature is 90°, it takes less than 10 minutes to spike to 109°. What’s more, cracking the windows has little effect on interior temperatures. Love your pets — and leave them at home if there’s any chance they will be left unattended — even for a minute — in a hot car. #DogDays #Pets
Know the Signs of Heatstroke in Pets
Dogs cool their bodies through their paw pads and panting, and hot asphalt or cement can easily burn their paws. Avoid walking your pet during the hottest part of the day, especially in direct sunlight. Place the back of your hand on the pavement to judge if it is too hot for your pet. Dogs and cats are at particular risk for heatstroke if they are very old, very young, overweight, or have heart or respiratory disease. If you witness signs of heatstroke as heavy panting, glazed eyes, dizziness, or vomiting, quickly remove your pet to shade or an air-conditioned space and apply ice packs or a cold towel to their head, neck and chest; then consult a veterinarian. #DogDays #Pets
Keep Pets Safe During the Dog Days of Summer
It’s “dog days” of summer, so here’s a helpful reminder: Heat and humidity can be dangerous to your animal companions. Be sure that your house pets can stay hydrated by placing several bowls around the house and consider limiting their intake of grain-based foods that cause metabolic spikes in body temperature, says the National Weather Service. Schedule your pet’s #outdoor time to avoid the hottest parts of the day, avoid strenuous activities and instead provide plenty of shade. Be alert to heat illness in pets such as a rapid or irregular heart rate, excessive drooling, lethargy, refusal to eat, or excessive panting. #DogDays #Pets