13 Jan 2007
Now that we are in the midst of our summer months we must make sure that our pets are safe from soaring temperatures and extreme heat. The normal body temperature of a dog or cat ranges between 38 - 39°C. Our pets can suffer from heat exhaustion and heat stroke and they can’t tell you that this is happening so it’s important that you learn how to recognise the symptoms.
Symptoms are extreme panting, dry mouth and nose, anxiety, increased heartbeat, dark red gums, lethargy, vomiting, drooling, lack of co-ordination and respiratory distress or hyperventilation. These symptoms can be followed in minutes by collapse, seizures, coma and even death.
Monitor your pets regularly and try and prevent them overheating by leaving lots of cool water around, an ice cube in the water is fine or even let them lick at an ice cube if they will. Some cats if affected by heat will stop drinking so it is important to try and make sure that water is taken. An eyedropper or syringe is a useful item to have around the house for these kinds of problems. Only drip the water into the mouth not shoot it down the throat.
Make sure that there is plenty of cool shelter around or keep your pet indoors in a cool room during the heat of the day.
A rub with a damp towel will help; a bag of frozen peas wrapped up in a tea towel and placed in the bed will keep the bed cool. There are mats now on the market that you can buy to help regulate their temperature and keep them cool.
Minimise exercise during the heat of the day and preferably for working dogs work early in the mornings or late in the afternoon. Encourage your dog to have a swim in the dam or river if out in the heat.
Dogs regulate their temperatures by the way of panting, they have sweat glands in the pads of their paws which helps expel heat however a dog can get heat exhaustion even in his kennel or any confined area. If they can not expel the heat fast enough then the body temperature rises and the demand for oxygen is greater which can then lead to total distress.
PLEASE, never leave your animals in cars unattended.
If your pet goes into heat exhaustion or heat stoke remove them from the hot area, wrap in wet towels or use cold packs in tea towels under their belly, in between their back legs and under arm pits. Take your pet to your vet as soon as possible.
Now that you know the signs of heat exhaustion and are aware of the dangers then it will be easier for you to manage and prevent your pet suffering during these times. Remember they can’t tell you so it’s up to you to manage their well being before its too late. They will certainly love you even more for it!!!!
Sharon Osmond
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