Pet Safety Tips for the Summer Heat
As we enter our summer months, it’s important to recognize how sensitive our pets are to the changing weather and environment. Read through these helpful tips so you can keep your pets safe and enjoy the summer together!
Know Your Dog
Some dogs are more susceptible to heat exposure and the effects of the sun. Certain breeds of dogs can have a more difficult time with heat. Research your dog’s breed to find out what they are more or less susceptible to.
Protecting Pads
Easy rule: if the pavement is too hot for your feet, then it is too hot for your dog’s paws. Limit your time outside especially when temperatures are high, and stick to grassy areas. Signs of burnt pads include limping, licking or chewing feet, refusing to walk, missing part of the pad, blisters or redness.
Hot Cars
Do not leave any pets alone in your vehicle. It doesn’t matter if you roll down the window or park under shade, it can still be life-threatening to your pet. Animals have a limited ability to sweat, meaning heat does not escape their bodies easily, so even a short time in a hot environment can be dangerous.
Hydratation and Shade
Make sure your pet always has access to fresh water, and find a cool place away from the sun while spending time with them outside. This can prevent your pet from getting heat stroke.
Be Aware of Bugs
Ontario is full of bug species that are harmful to our pets. Mosquitoes can transmit heartworm, fleas can lay eggs, ticks can transmit other diseases like Lyme disease, and large flies can bite thin skin causing itching and irritation. Call us to learn more about the various insect and parasite preventative products.
Heat Exposure
- Take dogs on walks in the morning or evening when the temperature is lower. Keep them on leash to prevent them from running, leading to overexertion.
- Certain types of dogs, such as Northern breeds or short-muzzled dogs can have a more difficult time in the heat. Dogs that are older, overweight, taking certain medications or with certain medical conditions are also more susceptible to heat exposure.
- If you are travelling and can’t take your pet inside with you when you leave your car, leave them at home where they are safe and cool.
- If you do not have air conditioning at home, provide a fan to keep your pets cool and comfortable. Close the curtains to keep the temperature lower, and give animals access to a cool room within your home. Spaces with bare floors are ideal, as they provide a cool place for your pet to lay down.
- Watch for signs of heatstroke, including excessive panting and drooling, listlessness or unconsciousness. If heatstroke is suspected, immediate veterinary medical attention is required.
- To help cool the animal, wet the fur immediately with lukewarm to cool water (NOT cold water.) Bring the pet into the shade and offer drinking water.
Don’t be afraid to go out and enjoy the weather with your pet! Just keep these handy tips in mind when you do, and enjoy the summer weather! And remember: if you see an animal in distress in the heat, call the government’s animal protection hotline at 1-833-9ANIMAL or your local police.
Courtesy of https://ontariospca.ca/.
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New Appointment Style: Zoom & Video Chats
As we maintain our COVID-19 clinic procedures, just a general reminder that curbside appointments are taking longer than usual. With that in mind, please allocate 60-90 minutes for each visit.
We are also beginning to set up video chat appointments in our exam rooms using ZOOM software, with a webcam and microphone for optimal audio and video capabilities. As soon as these are available, we will let you know upon booking. You will also be sent a link via email with all of the necessary details for setting up the video chat at your appointment time. Stay tuned!