About Us        Adopt       Donate       Volunteer       Events       Education       Links      

Protect Your Pet from the
Summer Sun and Heat

Dogs and cats do not sweat like humans and are affected more quickly by high temperatures and humidity.

Signs your pet is suffering from heat stroke include panting, increased heart rate, bright red gums and body temperatures of more than 105 degrees. If you suspect your pet is suffering from heat stroke, pour water on him every three to five minutes and then place your pet in a draft or under a fan.

For protection against heat stroke, please consider the following Do’s and Don’ts.

Do provide plenty of cool, clean water for your pet to drink. Do provide shade for your pet outside. If possible, bring your pet inside during the heat of the day. Let them rest in the cool part of the house. Old, overweight and snub-nosed dogs are more susceptible to hot weather and should be kept in air conditioning as much as possible. Do keep your pet groomed. Shaving the coat down to one inch in length will help prevent overheating. A clean coat also makes it easier to treat fleas and helps prevent skin problems. Shaving down to the skin will rob your pet of protection from the sun.Do check for fleas and ticks regularly. Use a good, safe shampoo or repellant recommended by your veterinarian. Do keep a current license and ID tag on your pet in case it gets lost. Do be alert for coolant leaking from automobiles. Just a small amount ingested by your pet can cause death.

Do not leave an animal unattended in a car. A parked car, even with the windows open, can quickly become a furnace. Do not force exercise after feeding. Exercise your pet in the cool part of the day - early morning or evening.Do not chain your pet up outside. This offers no protection from the sun as it shifts throughout the day.Do not walk your dog on hot asphalt or sidewalks for long periods. This can quickly heat up the animal and burn the pads of their feet. Do not walk your pet in areas that you suspect have been sprayed with insecticides or other chemicals. Chemicals can sicken and even kill animals. Do not leave your pets alone in the house with the windows open.