Keeping Pets Cool in the Summer Heat

Keeping Pets Cool in the Summer Heat

Summer pet care poses its own challenges, especially where Central Texas heat is concerned. Here are some tips from our Austin veterinarian:

A sensible walk schedule - If your pet requires a certain amount of exercise and potty time outdoors, think carefully about the best times of day to schedule these activities. This is especially important if you have a brachycephalic animal such as a Bulldog, Pug or Shih Tzu. These animals cannot tolerate hot temperatures for more than a few minutes at a time.

Water, water everywhere - Water evaporates quickly in an outdoor bowl on a hot day, so keep topping it off and never let it run out. If you have a deck, toss some ice chips on it from time to time, or fill a plastic kiddie pool. Some dogs even enjoy being sprayed with a hose!

Shelter - Outdoor pets need a shady place they can go to escape from the sun's rays. The traditional solution to this problem involves building a permanent dog house or similar structure, but today there are numerous plastic tents and other temporary gear to choose from. If you have a covered patio or deck that is not exposed to the sun during the hottest part of the day, this may be all the shelter your pet needs.

Travel - A alarming number of pets die because their owners left them in a sealed vehicle. Leave your pet at home, or take him out of the car whenever you exit it, otherwise you may find yourself in dire need of emergency veterinary services. If you are on a trip, have plenty of water readily available for your pet and bring plenty of fuel for your camper's air conditioner.

Trouble? Visit Our Austin Veterinarian

If your pet shows signs of heat stroke, including staggering, drooling, reddened gums, vomiting or diarrhea, bring him to Dessau Veterinary Clinic where we provide lifesaving veterinary services to pets in need!

Does your pet like to swim? Does he have his own kiddie pool?