Ask a vet: Pets and extreme heat
Some like it hot… but our pets don't
DR. NATASHA P. RUSSELL
Some like it hot! But most of our companion animals sure don't, especially when extreme heat comes on too quickly.
Quick spikes in temperature prevent our bodies from slowly building up a physiological resistance/tolerance to it (because that takes time and gradual increases in temperature). Let's cover the basics on what to watch out for and how to prevent heat emergencies, because in our pets, they’re often fatal and, when they aren't, they’re still expensive.
Risk factors that contribute to overheating
Aside from quick temperature changes reducing our inner physiology’s time to arm itself in defense, there are also external physical factors that will cause our bodies to overwork in the heat. These include obesity (think about those pets who snore at night), very young or old pets (under 1 year or over 7 years old), and pets with respiratory issues like collapsing tracheas and/or brachycephalic breeds (those that have flat faces and small nostrils): shih tzus, boston terriers, pugs, boxers, and bulldogs, to name a few.
Know the symptoms of overheating
Excessive panting: whenever our pets pant there should be breaks in it; when there isn't, pay attention)
Excessive drooling, or any drooling in pets who never drool should provoke action
Long lasting tiredness
Muscle weakness/unsteadiness
Unexplained vomiting and/or diarrhea, or even general restlessness should never be ignored
If you’re unable to alleviate any of these symptoms by providing access to fresh drinking water, shade, a cool basement, an air-conditioned car (even a pet friendly air-conditioned store), or a strong air fan in under 15 minutes, seek medical attention. Don’t forget you can always monitor your pet’s Sleeping Respiration Rate (SRR) to check in on their overall well-being and comfort level at night.
Never (like, ever):
X Leave your pets alone in a parked vehicle
X Leave pets unsupervised around a deep outdoor pool
X Restrict water intake/access
X Shave your pet or immerse your pet in water to cool them (hair is protective, sunburns happen, water on heated skin can boil)
Do not use sunscreens with zinc oxide or salicylates or linger on pavement asphalt (paw pads can burn and melt quickly, so stick to the grass or plan walks for when the sun isn’t out).
Prevention is key! Remember to stay out of the sun during peak hours and limit exposure altogether on really hot days to prevent health emergencies associated with dehydration and overheating. Please don’t forget to check in on our elders and neighbouring pet families too.
Until next time!
Your Community Vet