If you’re starting the feel the heat of summer, you’re not alone. Our pets can feel it, too. That’s why it’s important to be proactive about preventing heatstroke in pets.
Heatstroke (aka hyperthermia) is a dangerously elevated body temperature. For dogs, that’s anything above 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Symptoms of heatstroke include glazed eyes, difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, dizziness, a dark red or purple tongue, and seizures. If left unaddressed, overheating can be fatal.
To help protect pets this season, here are a few tips for retailers to share to keep pets from getting hurt by the heat.
1. Never leave a pet in the car.
Even if your windows are cracked or it’s a relatively cool day, the inside of your vehicle can still overheat – quickly. In just 10 minutes, the interior of a car can reach 102 degrees on an 85-degree day. Plus, many states and local governments have laws against leaving animals unattended in cars on hot days.
2. Walk when and where it’s safest.
Exercise is still important for pets’ health but adjust your walking times to the morning and evenings only. And when you’re out, be sure to avoid hot pavements or equip dogs with protective booties.
3. Keep cooling accessories on hand.
Let your pets have safe fun in the sun by investing in refreshing tools, like doggy swimming pools, fountains/sprinklers, ice-filled toys and cooling vests. You can also make DIY puppy popsicles by filling ice cubes with treats.
4. Watch the humidity.
It’s not just the temperature you need to keep an eye on this summer; it’s also the humidity. Many pets pant to regulate their body temperature. So, if the humidity is too high, they have trouble cooling themselves, which can lead to overheating even on relatively cool days.
