Keeping cool in hot weather is a challenge for humans. What about our pets?
In the UK, where temperatures hit record highs on Tuesday, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the British Veterinary Society recommend taking the following steps to ensure dogs and cats or your other pets are safe in hot weather.
WHAT DOESN’T DO IT
Do not take the dog for a walk in the hot afternoon sun. Dogs can struggle to stay cool in high-temperature conditions and are prone to overheating. This is because they cannot sweat and rely on panting to cool their body temperature. Flat-faced breeds such as English or French bulldogs and puppies are even more at risk, like they have Short muzzle can make breathing difficult. Go for a walk early in the morning or late at night.
Never leave a dog or any animal in a car, trailer, greenhouse or dump on a hot or even warm day. Being locked in a car for just a few minutes can be fatal to a pet.
Do not place the hut or cage in direct sunlight at any time of the day. Rabbits and guinea pigs cannot sweat or pant to regulate body temperature and cool down.
DOING WHAT
A runway test Place your palm on the ground for five seconds before taking the dog out for a walk. If you feel it’s too hot, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Make sure your pet has enough shade. Provide extra shade for your guinea pig by covering the top of the wire mesh with a damp cloth.
Give all pets regular access to fresh water. You can even put ice cubes in their water bowl.
Provide a cool place to rest. This may include a damp towel to lie on, although do not place a damp towel on your body as this can trap the dog.
Use sunscreen. Certain breeds of dogs and cats, especially those with lighter or finer coats, can also benefit from sunscreen, especially on the ear lobes, where sunburn is common.
“The BVA (British Veterinary Association) recommends avoiding sunscreens with zinc oxide to avoid zinc toxicity. If it’s hard to find products that are safe for pets, hypoallergenic or human products, it’s hard to find products that are safe for pets. Children should be advised to consult your veterinarian to make sure, Justine Shotton, president of the British Veterinary Association, writes on the association’s website that is applying sunscreen correctly. and in the right place.
Watch for the early signs of heatstroke. In dogs, they include panting, drooling, restlessness, bright red or very pale gums, and lack of coordination. Signs of heatstroke in rabbits include drooling, drooling, lethargy, short and shallow breathing, red and warm ears, wet nose, and convulsions.
If you suspect heatstroke or any other heat-related condition, take your pet to a cool, well-ventilated place. Add a small amount of cool (not cold) water to drink and pour room temperature water on top to cool. Seek immediate advice from your veterinarian.
Inspect warehouses, greenhouses and greenhouses before closing. Cats love cozy places, but they run the risk of overheating or dehydration if trapped.
Brush your cat or dog regularly. Regular brushing in warmer weather can help remove dead or excess hair, leaving your cat or dog with a less dense coat that keeps them cooler.
