Is Your Pet Staying Cool Enough?
The upcoming summer months can be uncomfortable for people, and downright dangerous for pets. That's because it's difficult for dogs and cats to acclimate to rising temperatures. Here in Austin, excessive heat warnings, public health recommendations, and guidelines from the National Weather Service should also serve as reminders to protect our pets, too.
At Dessau Vet Clinic — providing the finest in veterinary care — we'll do our best to help you keep your pets cool this summer. If you have any doubts about basic summer safety, we encourage you to talk to our veterinarians or any member of our staff. In addition, follow these tips when the temperature rises:
Always Exercise Caution
In Austin, temperatures from June through August range from 92 to 97 degrees on average. If it's too hot for you to exercise outside, it's definitely too warm for your pet. That means finding a balance between keeping your dog active and avoiding heat stroke.
If you want to spend a little time outdoors, find a shaded area with a stream or creek your dog can cool off in. Alternatively, turn on the sprinkler or let your dog jump in the pool.
Watch for Signs of Distress
When spending time outdoors in the summer, you should always watch for signs of distress in your animal. Your first indication that your pet is overheating is if they're aggressively seeking out shade. Other signs can include:
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Exaggerated panting (or no panting at all)
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Heavy salivation
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Lethargy and weakness
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Stumbling or a lack of coordination
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Convulsions or vomiting
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Complete collapse
If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, you need to get to a local veterinarian or animal hospital immediately.
Other Tips for Keeping Your Pets Cool
Remember that humidity can affect your pet more than heat. No matter the temperature, you should always provide them with plenty of cold water to drink and a room with circulating air.
If you need more advice on keeping your pets cool this summer, call Dessau Vet Clinic in Austin at 512-339-3177.