Summer brings about an abundance of sunshine and outdoor activities, but with the rising temperatures, it’s crucial to ensure our furry friends remain cool and comfortable. At Blue Lake Animal Hospital, we understand the joy of spending time outdoors with your pets during these warm months. However, the risk of heat illnesses is a serious concern that pet owners must be aware of, whether it’s for dogs, cats or any animal enjoying the summer sun. Our team of experienced veterinarians is dedicated to helping you keep your pet safe from the dangers of excessive heat.
Heat-related illnesses can occur quite rapidly in pets, given their different methods of cooling down compared to humans. While we can sweat freely, dogs, for instance, rely heavily on panting and have only a minimal ability to sweat through the pads of their feet. This difference makes them particularly susceptible to overheating and heat stroke, conditions that can escalate quickly and potentially become fatal.
Determining if it’s too hot for your pet involves watching out for several indicators. Firstly, if the outdoor temperature feels uncomfortable to you, it’s likely too hot for your pet as well. Specific temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit pose significant risks, and even temperatures ranging from 80 to 90 degrees can be dangerous if pets are left outside without access to shade and water.
Be vigilant for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke in your pets, which can include:
If you suspect your pet is suffering from heat exhaustion or a heat stroke, immediate action is critical. Move them to a cooler environment, apply cool (not cold) water to their body, and contact a veterinarian promptly. Remember, heat stroke requires immediate medical attention to prevent severe complications or death.
Preventing heat illnesses begins with being prepared and understanding the risks. Here are several tips to ensure your pet stays cool and healthy throughout the summer:
Our beloved pets rely on us to recognize when the heat is just too much for them to handle. By staying informed, watching for signs of discomfort or illness, and taking preventive measures, we can ensure they enjoy the summer just as much as we do.
Should you ever be concerned about your pet’s well-being in the heat or need advice on how to protect them, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team is here to support you and your pet through every season of the year, ensuring they remain happy, healthy and cool, no matter the temperature outside.
Prevention is key to supporting your pet’s ongoing health. We devise an individualized strategy to keep your pet healthy and happy.
We perform standard and specialized surgeries to address your pet’s health concerns, including spays, tumor removal, orthopedic surgeries, and more.
Vaccinations are an important part of preventing communicative diseases. Keep your pet up-to-date on their vaccinations right at our office.
Dental health is essential to your pet’s overall wellness. Our dental services cover all of your pet’s oral health needs, from tooth extraction to cleaning.
Year-round heartworm prevention is key to keeping your pet healthy. We provide FDA-approved treatments to prevent infection.
Fleas and ticks aren’t just a nuisance: they pose a serious threat to your pet’s health. Protect your pet with preventative medicine.
Pocket pets have unique health needs. Our team addresses your pet’s health issues and develops a strategy, so they feel like their energetic self.
We provide comprehensive reproductive care for pets, including artificial insemination, neonatal care, fertility exams, and more.
Various orthopedic problems with your pet can call for surgical operations, and our vets have a wide range of experience handling orthopedic issues.
Managing your pet’s medical needs is easy when you use our online pharmacy. Renew your pet’s prescription and purchase FDA-approved medication right from the comfort of your home. If you have any questions, contact us to speak with a trusted veterinarian.