Tips to Help Our Pets Beat the Heat

Summertime gives me plenty of reason to celebrate. Perhaps it's because I grew up overseas in the tropics that it’s never quite hot enough for me here in San Francisco. Frankly, it’s not even warm enough, let alone hot enough! Even though summer in San Francisco is much, much cooler than it is in other parts of the country, at least we do get that occasional, glorious burst of heat from time to time. Warmer weather brings us out of our homes and into our backyards and pool areas (I should be so lucky) to soak up the sun.  Opal and Dixie seem to sense my elevated mood when it’s nice and toasty out, and their spirits soar along with mine (not that their spirits aren’t high enough at any other time of year!)  That said, as much as they enjoy being outdoors and basking in the sun with me, they lose the energy they typically have to run and play, and they do become a bit lethargic after awhile. Despite my personal love of hot weather, I’m always aware that for Opal and Dixie, these heat waves bring their fair share of precautions.  Here are some things that I’m always vigilant of, and that you may want to think about as well:

Overheating, Dehydration, and Heat Stroke Can Happen Quickly

Too little shade and not enough water is a deadly combination.  Dogs and cats can get overheated very quickly.  As a result, their bodies may become dehydrated.  They may also get sunburned or suffer from heatstroke.  In severe cases, animals become too ill to survive their illness.

Here are five tips that can help your pets beat the heat this summer:

  • When outdoors, give your pet a place to lay down in the shade.  Make sure that the area is comfortable and out of the way of direct sunlight.
  • Make sure that your pet has access to fresh water at all times.  The average dog should drink 1 ounce or 30 milliliters of water per pound.  This increases during hotter months, and more so when an animal spends long period of time outdoors.
  • If you keep your pet in a crate during the day, make sure that it is well-ventilated.  It’s nice to point a fan towards your pet’s crate if he or she seems hotter than usual.
  • On car trips, keep a collapsible water dish handy.  Take frequent rest breaks to let your pet stretch out his or her legs and get a drink of water. 
  • Never, EVER leave your pet in the car alone.  Temperatures rise quickly and can cause your pet to become ill or even die, even with a window cracked.  If your pet shows any signs of overheating, dehydration or sunburn, consult your Veterinarian right away.
  • If you tend to "dress up" your pet in little t-shirts and sweaters, I'm not sure you really want to do this in hot weather. Animals are so much more hot-blooded than we are. That, coupled with their fur... well, think about it:  would YOU like to be wrapped up in a sweater when you're in 80 degree weather??

Treating Your Pet’s Summer Symptoms

If you suspect your pet is overheating or is panting hard and has white gums, quickly bring them in an area away from the sun.  Point a fan at them if one is available.  Run cool water over their body and stroke their fur.  Keep them calm by speaking softly to them.

If your pet is dehydrated, you can give them small amounts of water or electrolyte drinks.  If their symptoms worsen, seek medical help immediately.  Too much water can cause animals to vomit which actually heightens their dehydration.

Sunburns are no fun for humans or pets.  Colloidal oatmeal mixed with water soothes red, itchy skin.  Witch hazel takes the heat out of a burn while aloe cools skin and helps it heal faster.  Apply the chosen substance to the animal’s inflamed area several times daily, being aware of any allergies your pet may experience.

The raging summer sun doesn’t have to become your pet’s worst enemy.  Exercise caution when spending time outdoors with your dog or cat.  Think the same way you would when caring for yourself.  Frequent shady areas, hydrate often, and protect both your and your pet’s skin.