Baby, It’s Hot Outside!
The PNW is an outdoor lover’s dream! The summertime beckons us outside for hikes, and swims, and adventures galore. As humans, we can take a number of steps to increase our comfort on hot days, but we have to be sure to remember our furry friends. Cats and dogs (and bunnies too) can overheat quickly, and when that happens, things can go downhill faster than you realize.
Most pet owners realize that keeping pets in hot cars can kill them…but not many realize just how quickly the effects of heatstroke can set in for a dog or cat. Heatstroke is a condition animals begin to suffer gradually, but it accelerates quickly; it’s easy for early signs of heatstroke to go unrecognized, and for the pet to be in an emergency situation within mere minutes.
On warm days, a vehicle acts like an oven. It holds the heat inside, and that heat becomes very intense even on days that don’t seem too warm. On an 85-degree day, for example, even with the windows open, the temperature inside a car can climb to 102 degrees in 10 minutes, and to 120 degrees in 30 minutes. Because a dog’s normal body temperature is 101-102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, he can withstand a body temperature of 107-108 degrees for only a very short time before suffering irreparable brain damage…or death. So, running into the store for “just one thing” can lead to disaster.
The typical signs of heatstroke are:
– Panting
– High body temperature
– Dehydration
– Red mouth/eye membranes
– Rapid, irregular heart rate
– Diarrhea
– Weakness, looking dazed
– Coma
If your pet begins exhibiting any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately or proceed to an urgent care or emergency clinic. Minutes matter in an emergency.
According to Washington state law (RCW 16.52.340), it is against the law for anyone to “leave or confine any animal in an unattended motor vehicle or enclosed space”. A person can be charged with animal cruelty in the first degree or second degree for doing so because “the animal could be harmed or killed by exposure to excessive heat, cold, lack of ventilation, or lack of necessary water.”
Also, use caution during warm weather months when leaving animals outside in yards or on porches. Never leave them outside extended periods of time. Ensure appropriate shade and water are always available. Keep close supervision on your pet when outdoors on hot, humid, sunny summer days. If you see an animal left on a porch or in a yard with no access to shelter, or with inadequate shelter, contact your city or county animal control department immediately.
Cooling pads, kiddie pools, frozen treats, and lots of shade and cool grass feel good for everyone during these hot months. Make staying cool a family affair, and find all of the good spots in your yard to soak in the summer, without melting in the heat. Sprinklers and garden hoses can be relief and fun in one activity that brings everyone together, and is guaranteed to bring some smiles and laughs from all involved.
What is your favorite summer activity to do with your pet? How do you keep cool?