Summer in Texas is no joke! Our hot weather can be extremely dangerous to pets. Heat exhaustion can happen very quickly in our canine companions. This can very quickly develop into heat stroke, which can prove fatal. Fido can’t change into cooler clothes or get himself a cold drink, so it’s up to you to protect him from those soaring temperatures. A Frisco, TX vet offers some tips on that below.
Know Thy Enemy
Hyperthermia—or heat exhaustion, as it’s also called—happens when dogs’ body temperatures go above the range when they can regulate it. Left untreated, it can lead to unconsciousness, organ failure, and even death. Warning signs include panting, drooling, lethargy, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, and trembling. If you see these, immediately get Fido to a cool area, give him some water (not too much) and call your vet.
Water, Water, Water
Hydration is key here. Make sure Fido always has water available. Drop an ice cube into his bowl on those sweltering-hot days!
Car
We can’t overstate how dangerous it is to leave a dog inside a parked car. Temperatures inside that vehicle will rise much faster than you may think! It only takes ten minutes for the inside of a car to get to 110 when it’s 80 degrees out. When it’s 90, it will get to 130 degrees in just half an hour.
Keep Fido Out Of The Sun
Limit your canine buddy’s outdoor time on sweltering days. If Fido does spend a lot of time outdoors, make sure he always has shade and cool water outside.
Climate Control
No surprises here! Make sure your pooch always has access to cool rooms.
Cooling Products
Did you know that you can get your furry friend a cooling vest? Fido may also appreciate having a cooling pad to relax on. To go the DIY route, hang a wet bandana around his neck or put a frozen towel in his doggy bed.
Cold Snacks
Want to both keep Fido’s tail going and help him beat the heat? Offer him a cold snack, like doggy ice cream or homemade pupsicles. Just stick with safe items.
Schedule
In summer, walk and play with Fido in the mornings and evenings. Keep him indoors, in rooms with AC or climate control, during the hottest part of the day.
As your Frisco, TX animal clinic, we’re here to help. Call us anytime!
