Flip through the latest issue of Gulf Weekly.
The hot weather is here and I hope that you have remembered that dogs and cats can suffer from the same problems that humans do, such as overheating, dehydration and even sunburn.
Remember to take some simple precautions and keep your pets happy and healthy during these sweltering months. How many times has it broken my heart to see a dog suffering in a sweltering car? Never leave your pet alone in a vehicle as it can have fatal results. Even with the windows slightly open, a parked car can quickly become a furnace in no time and parking in the shade offers little protection especially here in the Gulf. If there is any reason that you must take your dog with you in the car always carry a container filled with cold, fresh water when travelling. Animals’ bodies can heat up quickly, and sensitive paw pads can burn so try and keep walks during day times to a minimum and I know it is not always easy but don’t let your dog stand for too long on hot asphalt.
A day at the beach is a no-no with your dog in this heat, unless you can guarantee a shaded spot and plenty of fresh water for him. Salty dogs should be rinsed off after a dip in the ocean. I personally hate the fact that pets are kept outdoors but if it is a necessity then please remember to provide them with continuous fresh cold water and plenty of shade, a properly constructed doghouse serves best although it would be much better to bring your pet inside during the intense heat of the day to rest in a cool part of your house. Good grooming can also stave off summer skin problems, especially for dogs with heavy coats. Shaving the hair to about a one-inch length, but resist the temptation to shave off all of his hair in an effort to keep him cool as a pet’s coat will protect him from getting sunburned.
Keep in mind, too, that pets who are older or overweight, just like humans, are more likely to overheat during hot weather. Dogs cool themselves by panting. If panting does not reduce the body temperature the dog will develop heat stroke. Early signs of heat exhaustion include rapid breathing, heavy panting, and salivation. Other signs are fatigue, muscle tremors, and staggering. If you see a dog that is experiencing heat exhaustion, take the dog to a cool, shady place, and apply wet towels to help cool the dog’s body down. Above all, use your common sense and please remember that our canine and feline friends suffer too when temperatures soar.
