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Preventive Measures
- Never leave your pet in a closed automobile or unventilated enclosure
- Prove shade for outdoor pets
- Avoid excessive excercise during hot weather
- Provide plenty of fresh drinking water
More About Heat Stress
As summer temperatures climb, domestic pets become more susceptible to hyperthermia or heat stroke. This disturbance of the heat regulation mechanism of the body results from high environmental temperatures, high humidity, and inadequate ventilation.
Dogs and cats confined to a car are at the highest risk. The temperature within a car can easily reach 120 degrees while the outside temperature is much lower.
The prominent signs of heat exhaustion are weakness, muscle tremors, and collapse. Some animals show difficulty breathing and rapid pulse. The body temperature is frequently elevated.
Whenever heat stroke is suspected, the body temperature should be reduced as soon as possible. Cold water should be applied topically to the body and the animal should be moved to a cool and shaded area. Medical therapy should be provided to prevent shock and other side effects related to heat stroke.
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