The Texas sun is doing what it does best this summer, making it all but impossible to spend any quality time outside. But no matter how bad we have it, it’s nothing compared to what our furry friends have to deal with. Just imagine being covered in fur and standing on a burning sidewalk for any length of time! AT TCAP, we want your pets to stay safe this summer, so we have compiled a list of summer safety tips to ensure that your pets stay cool.
Shade and Water
No matter if your pet is staying outside for an extended period of time or not, he will need access to plenty of shade and water. If your pet must be left outside unsupervised, please ensure that his water bowl cannot be easily turned over and that he will have access to shade even if the sun shifts.
Pet pools are great for helping your canine friend keep cool, but remember to change the water frequently so the water doesn’t heat up too much. If you happen to have a people-sized pool, treat your pets just like your children. Protect your pets from accidental drowning by never leaving them in the pool area unsupervised.
Avoid Excessive Heat
If your dog is your jogging buddy, consider leaving her at home or jogging early in the day if you continue to do so during the summer. Dogs cannot cool themselves like we can and it is very easy for them to overheat in Texas summer conditions. On top of that, your loyal companion will likely keep going no matter how hot she gets and this can lead to a heatstroke.
Never leave your pet in the car even on relatively cool days! Even with your windows cracked it will only take 10 minutes for the heat inside your car to climb 20 degrees. You may be tempted to leave your pet in the car for a short errand, but temperatures inside parked cars climb to deadly levels alarmingly fast, especially during the summer months where the average outside temperature in Texas is 95 degrees.
Heat Strokes
Heat strokes are very serious and can easily occur if proper precautions aren’t taken. If your pet suffers from a heat stroke, seek emergency help from a full service veterinarian immediately. Early signs to look for include excessive panting, stumbling, weakness, stupor, and bright red gums. Your pet’s body temperature can climb over 104 degrees. As the stroke progresses, seizures, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, coma, and even death may follow. Brachyephalic breeds (smashed-face dogs like Boston terries, Pugs, and English Bulldogs) are more susceptible to heat-related problems. Remember, if the weather is warm, think shade and water.