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Despite the truce given these days, the heating season is not behind. According to data from the Institute of Atmosphere Sciences and Climate Change of the UNAM, these climatic conditions will continue throughout June and, as of July 1, a new wave of high temperatures could begin. Given this situation, it is necessary to take concrete actions to protect the health and well-being of dogs and cats.
As pet tutors, we must be vigilant to detect when our furry ones are experiencing heat stroke and have the necessary knowledge to act immediately and put them out of danger
It is important to note that each animal body has its methods to regulate heat. For example, people have a larger area to sweat and cool the body; dogs and cats only sweat and dissipate heat through the glands on the paw pads. Additionally, cats reduce heat by licking; Neither of these two things is very helpful, which is why dogs pant as the prime way to dissipate heat, according to Veterinarian Alejandro Sánchez, technical manager of the companion animal unit of MSD Animal Health in Mexico.
Pets are more prone to heat stroke, so guardians must learn and implement actions to keep their pets in top condition during the hot season. Exposure of pets to high temperatures can cause heat stroke and stress conditions that can lead to problems for their health later on.
Below we share a quick guide to care and recommendations to avoid your pet having a heat stroke.
walk schedules
While the high temperatures continue, we suggest that you take your dog for a walk at times with less sun exposure, that is, before 8:00 AM and after 7:00 PM. Coordinating the outings at these times of the day will prevent the canines from suffering burns on their pads and possible dehydration. On the other hand, we recommend walking with your pet in shady and well-ventilated places and carrying a spray bottle of fresh water (not cold) to spray intermittently on the face or bringing a damp towel to apply it on the back and abdomen.
Hydration is fundamental
Always, but more so this hot season, keeping your dog and cat hydrated will be essential to keep them healthy. Try to have clean and fresh water available, which you should change frequently and, if necessary, add ice cubes to chill. Try to have shady areas with ventilation. Never leave them locked up at home.
hair care
It is not advisable to cut their hair, contrary to what one might think; in pets, their fur protects them from receiving direct sunlight on the skin, in addition to the fact that long hair traps air, a situation that will help dissipate heat; the only recommendation is to keep them brushed to remove excess dead hair.
Cars
Never leave them locked in the car; the temperature can rise so fast that they could die in less than an hour. If we go on a trip with our pet, we must provide it with water and schedule stops to rest and walk in a cool area.
Learn to watch your pet
Panting and heavy breathing are a way to regulate body temperature. If you detect that your dog or cat has this behavior, we recommend you take it to a ventilated place to recover its temperature gradually. You may apply a damp towel to the belly and back. If this persists, take it immediately to the veterinarian, who will determine which treatment to develop. Another sign that may indicate heat stroke in your pet is excessive salivation. The tongue and mucous membranes can turn dark red, which can degrade into a bluish color due to deficient oxygenation of the blood. In that case, take your pet immediately to the Veterinary Doctor.
Avoid getting them too wet!
If your dog or cat is experiencing heat stroke, don’t douse them with too much cold water! That could cause a thermal shock and cause severe damage, such as changes in blood pressure, fainting, dizziness, and even cardiac arrest. If your dog likes baths, do it with warm water.
Visit the Veterinary
After applying the first care to your pet, it will be necessary for you to take it to the Veterinary Doctor so that the expert can determine the state of health of your dog or cat and if it requires any additional treatment. In this hot season, high temperatures also cause the proliferation of parasites such as fleas and ticks. For this reason, it is crucial to deworm your pets externally with innovative treatments that protect them for up to 12 weeks.
Learn more at MSD Animal Health.
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Statement, Alan González S.
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