So far this season, we have had over 12 days of 90-plus degree weather. This week, the local weather folks say we’ll get more 90-degree heat. With the hot weather upon us, we humans flock to the air-conditioners, beaches and swimming pools to cool off.
But, let’s not forget we’re not the only ones suffering from the heat.
That’s why Patrick Glidden, D.V.M. of the Lakeville Veterenary Clinic on Lakeville Rd. is urging pet owners to take special caution during these warm summer months.
Glidden said some of the main rules to follow are to make sure pets, like large breed dogs with long hair, always have ample shade and water available.
Large breed dogs tend to be more susceptible to heat stroke.
Also, Glidden said there should be no intense exercise during the heat of the day.
‘We’ve seen some really bad cases of heat stroke where someone decided to go out running and the dog collapses,? he said.
So far, there haven’t been any incidents of heat stroke at the Lakeville Clinic this summer.
Baths and swimming can also be harmful to your dog’s skin.
‘Make sure they really dry out afterwards because they can get skin infections,? Glidden said.
The most horrific circumstance, when it comes to pets and heat stroke, is when an owner leaves their dog in the car.
‘Obviously, don’t lock your dog in the car with the windows up,? Glidden said. ‘Air-conditioning is always great for these guys.?
Shaving down animal’s hair to about 3/4-1/2 inch thick in the summer months helps keep their body temperature cooler. Glidden said although it may look funny, cats also benefit from shaving.
‘It’s a great, great thing to do to help them not over heat,? he said.
When it comes to pesticides used for lawn care, Glidden urges homeowners to follow the recommendations ‘to the T.?
Another problem in the summer, although dogs love to do it, is riding with the car windows down on the freeway.
‘Road grit can cause corneal trauma,? Glidden said.
If you notice your dog is getting over heated, Glidden said the best thing to do is run a cool bit of water across their neck to cool them off and drop their body temperature.
Signs of heat stroke in a pet include acute weakness, collapsing and behavioral changes, like not being able to keep up.
Contact your professional as soon as possible if these signs are evident. Oakland Veterinary Emergency Services are staffed 24/7 and are always available for questions at (248) 334-1555.