One of the reasons for this is because they don’t perspire like we do. Their sweat glands aren’t spread all over their bodies and can only eliminate heat through the pads of their paws, through panting, lips or chin, depending on whether they are a dog or a cat. This makes them more sensitive to heat and much more prone to heat stroke which, if not treated in time, can lead to death
Therefore, you must be clear that prevention is the best thing you can do to avoid heat stroke, so always keep these tips in mind!!
Control hydration
Water should always be available, both at home and on excursions, at the beach, in the park and in all outdoor activities
Also, to ensure they are always hydrated you can prepare homemade snacks by freezing fruit (such as watermelon or cantaloupe) or their wet food to ease the head and keep them entertained.
Adapt to the weather
Don’t go for walks or exercise during the hottest part of the day and when you do, your dog should drink water before you go out to stay hydrated. Try to walk on dirt paths or green areas and avoid tarmac as it’s one of the worst enemies of their pads and can cause serious burns and injuries.
Try to feed them in the cooler hours of the day. You can take advantage of the summer to mix dry and wet food, which, as mentioned above, will help to keep your dog hydrated as it contains more water
Help him stay cool
Cool him down by wetting his tummy, paws and pads and if he enjoys bathing, look for places like rivers, dog beaches or if you have a pool, all the better!!
If it’s very hot, there are cooling beds made of breathable materials or raised beds that keep the ground humid and at the same time soothe them from the heat. You can also try freezing them in the fridge and using them as a cooling cushion for dogs and cats.
Also, at home, it’s a good idea to place damp towels on the floor where they can rest, and don’t forget to lower the blinds and open the windows to let the air in but keep the sun out.
Avoid sun exposure
It’s very important that they have a cool, sheltered place to rest, especially during the hottest part of the day, and if, por example, you are going to the beach, always take an umbrella with you.
If you are travelling by car with your furry friend, air and cool the car before he gets in and never, under any circumstances, leave him alone in the car. Also, don’t forget to bring towels, ice and water in cese your dog or cat shows signs of overheating.
And be careful if you have a short-haired or hairless dog or cat! This doesn’t mean that they are cooler, but that they are the ones most at risk from the high temperatures and can even suffer sunburn, so in these cases it is advisable to apply specific sun protection to the areas where they have no hair.
And never, never, never shave your dog! Remember that fur protects them and acts as an insulator against both cold and heat
With these tips and a lot of prevention, we are sure that your furry friend will have a great summer and above all, be safe from heat stroke!
And remember! If you have any doubts, always go to your vet, as he or she is the best person to help you.
