Hot pets? Not cool! Learn how to prevent heatstroke.

Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, and that means a whole lot of basking and frolicking in the sun is about to begin! Get ready for your summer fun with a plan to help your pet always keep their cool so they never get dangerously overheated.

 

Here are some simple tips to help your pet stay chill:

• Keep water bowls regularly filled with fresh, cold water and remember to pack water for your pet on all your outings, including runs and hikes.
• Provide some airy, shady spots in your pet’s outdoor spaces that they can relax in. Dog houses don’t count since they tend to get hot and stuffy.
• Cool your home with air conditioning, if possible. If air conditioning is not an option, offer plenty of ventilation, like fans and open windows.
• Never leave your pet in a parked car. The temperature inside can rise incredibly fast, even if the temperature outside doesn’t seem too bad.
• Plan outdoor exercise for the morning or evening hours, when temperatures are cooler.
• Brush and bathe your pet regularly to remove all the extra fluff insulating them.
• Take extra care with pets who are at risk of heatstroke, including pets with short noses (like pugs and bulldogs), elderly pets, overweight pets and pets with heart or lung disease.

When you’re out in the sun, keep a close eye on your pet for signs of excessive panting or excessive drooling to know when to quit the heat and head for the shade. You can also offer them some cool (not cold!) water and cover them in towels soaked in lukewarm (not cold!) water to gradually and safely bring down their temperature.  

If along with panting and drooling your pet shows any of these additional signs of heatstroke, take them straight to the veterinarian:

• Difficulty breathing
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Weakness
• Incoordination or stumbling
• Sudden collapse
• Seizures

Heatstroke is no joke, but with the right precautions, the risk of heatstroke can be history! 

Find shampoos and conditioners to help keep your pet’s coat light and glossy this summer. >>