Arizona pet owners are no beginners when it comes to the heat. But with this summer’s record heat, perhaps a review is in order, along with a reminder of what to do if something happens and your pet gets too hot.
Keep pets inside as much as possible.
Never leave them in the car.
Walking Your Dog:
Use dog boots and do not over exercise. At 90 degrees, the ground is hot enough to burn paws in 60 seconds. Dirt, grass and sand can be too hot, even in the shade. Test by placing your hand or bare foot on the ground for 7 seconds. If it is too hot for you it’s too hot for them. If you suspect your dog’s feet are burned, flush them with cool water and get them to a vet. Dog’s pads regulate their temperature so it’s critical to get care.
Symptoms of Pad Burn:
- Refusing to walk or limping
- Darker than usual or discolored pads
- Excessive licking or biting of feet
- Visible blisters or extreme redness
- Missing part of pads
Know which pets are at highest risk:
- Older, younger and pets underlying health issues
- Dogs and cats with thicker coats, like huskies, golden retrievers and Siberians.
- Animals with shorter snouts and squished faces like pugs, English and French bulldogs, Boston terriers and Persian and Himalayan cats are extremely susceptible to heat.
Know the signs of overheating, and act quickly:
- Excessive panting with ropy saliva
- Lethargy, not responding to their name or commands
- Staggering
- Red tongue and gums
- In cats, open-mouth breathing
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
What to do:
Hyperthermia is an immediate medical emergency. Safe, controlled reduction of body temperature is a priority. Cool water (not cold — this restricts the blood vessels) may be poured over the head, stomach, armpits and feet, or cool cloths may be applied to these areas. If using cool wet cloths, these should be continually replaced, or they will start to retain heat. Ensure a continuous flow of air across the pet to help increase evaporative heat loss until treatment is received at your veterinary hospital.