Pet Safety, It’s that time of year!
Some tips to protect your companions from the summer heat.
Be Generous With Water
A pet’s drinking water should be available at all times during outside exercise or play. Consider setting up kiddie pools or sprinklers to run around in. The easier it is for them to access a way to cool down without your help, the better.
Create Shaded Areas
Make sure your pet has a shaded area to take a break and relax. You can use a umbrella, covered patio, or even tree shade.
Walk Earlier & Shorter Intervals
Go out before and after the peak heat of the day, and avoid too-hot pavement. If you can not walk barefoot on the pavement either can your pet.
Know The Signs of Heat Exhaustion
Excessive panting, dark purple-red tongue, redness around the eyes are signs that a dog may need a serious cool-down. Use a cold hose or ice packs under the armpits, and bring them inside to a cool floor area if possible. If your dog does not cool within 15 minutes please bring your pet to the ER with ice packs in hand.
*Very Important Breed Information
Brachycephalic breeds or breeds with short noses (French bulldogs, English bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos are some examples), are unable to cool themselves due to the lack of a nasal cavity. It is very important not to go out between the hours of 10a and 6p in Florida. If you have to bring your brachycephalic breed out in the sun make the trip short. These breeds do not do well at public events that are held in the middle of the day.
