With the sweltering dog days of summer here, Texas A&M AgriLife experts encourage Texans to incorporate precautions to protect pets from heat stress.
Water, shade and ventilation are key. Proper hydration is vital for animal health, but it is just one component of ensuring proper thermoregulation.
The same principles also apply to livestock animals that may be confined to a structure, such as backyard chickens.
Another backyard-friendly option is to use the shallow, hard plastic children’s pools sold at retail stores. They are a great option for dogs as long as they can safely exit the water. Frozen plastic jugs of water that an animal can lie against also provide relief.
While exercise is important for pet health, avoiding strenuous activities during the heat of the day. In urban areas that contain more pavement, ambient temperature isn’t the only concern. One way to test pavement for heat safety is to place the back of your hand on the surface for 7-10 seconds. If the pavement temperature is uncomfortable or too hot for the skin, it is too hot for the pet.
Although owners can purchase protective shoe-like covers to protect paws, pet owners are encouraged to leave pets at home if attending events where this exposure is possible, such as summer festivals.
Needs also vary based on age and breed. Even in the safety of a backyard, some pets require extra consideration. Pet safety tips include: Pet-friendly sunblock, ultraviolet protective clothing and life vests help prevent sun damage and drowning when on the water.
Secure home pools to prevent pets from accidentally falling in.
Proper brushing and grooming improves coat condition cooling efficiency.
Brachycephalic animals are characterized by wide heads and shortened or snub-nosed snouts. This includes popular dog breeds such as French bulldogs, English bulldogs and Boston terriers, as well as cat breeds like Persian and Himalayan.
According to AgrilLife experts, these animals are not able to tolerate heat very well. They have a very shortened airway, small tracheas, and they cannot adequately transfer air to drop their body temperature. Humid conditions can exacerbate this difficulty breathing.
It is important for pet owners to recognizing the signs of distress. While heavy breathing is a normal response among dogs and cats attempting to cool off, excessive and prolonged panting is a certain sign of stress.
A very rapid respiratory rate, rapid heart rate, staggering or drooling are definite signs that a pet is very distressed and requires attention. Immediately take them indoors or in the shade, provide water and try to keep them calm and still.
If the animal’s condition does not improve or deteriorates, seek medical attention from a veterinarian.
Although natural waterbodies provide respite from heat for both animals and humans, fatal cases of cyanobacteria exposure among dogs have caused many pet owners to think twice before allowing their pets to take the plunge.