Summer Pet Guide: Hot Weather Pet Safety Tips

Among the most common and dangerous risks for canines is heat stroke, which occurs when a dog’s body temperature exceeds 106 degrees.³ When this happens, there is a potential for damage to the brain and other organs. Any breed with a short or flat nose is at an increased risk for heat stroke. The reason being that their ability to breathe effectively is compromised, which makes it more difficult to cool themselves in situations where heat and exercise are involved. In addition to heat stroke, fair-skinned and short-coated white dogs are highly susceptible to excessive sun exposure, which can lead to sunburn and skin cancer.

Many pet owners are unaware of how quickly heat stroke and other heat-related issues can occur in canines. The risks are especially high if a dog is left inside a car, even on days with mild temperatures. On a seemingly cool summer day of 68 degrees, the temperature inside a car can jump to 81 degrees within a mere 10 minutes. After an hour, the temperature inside the car can reach 115 degrees, a deadly level for dogs.¹

Heat-related health issues are not only hazardous, but also incredibly expensive. The average cost of heat stroke related claims received by Pets Best is $1591. ²

Symptoms of heat stroke in dogs include:

• Heavy panting or difficulty breathing
• Rapid heart rate
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Bright red gums
• Seizures
• Collapsing

The Dangers of Foxtails for Dogs

Foxtails, also known as cheatgrass, come from tall grass that has gone to seed. They have sharp points and are difficult to extract given their barbed shape. Foxtails often get stuck in between pets’ toes, inside their ear canals, in their eyes, and in extreme cases, they can be inhaled through the nose. When foxtails become lodged in fur or other body parts, they can cause abscesses which often require surgery and immediate medical attention. Untreated, complications caused by foxtails can result in serious pet health problems and even death.

Generally, long-haired dogs and dogs with floppy ears are at a higher risk. Cats can also encounter health issues from foxtails, but they are not nearly as common due to cats’ grooming habits. The key to preventing pet health problems caused by foxtails is to brush and inspect your pet often, especially after playing outside.

Treating Your Pet’s Bug Bites

For the most part, bug bites will heal on their own. However, certain insect bite pet treatments, such as over-the-counter lotions and medication can help speed up the process. Some bites, however, can be poisonous, spread disease or be very persistent and medical attention is necessary. As with any potential health risk, be aware of any changes in behavior such as loss of appetite, lethargy, loss of weight or signs of pain. Always consult a medical professional when your dog or cat is not acting normal because your understanding of your pet is the best prevention to maintain your pet’s well-being.

Paw Pad Burns: Keeping Your Pet’s Paws Cool

The hot summer sun can raise the temperature of asphalt roads to a dangerous degree, even when the temperature outdoors feels pleasant. If the asphalt or sidewalk is too hot for people to walk on barefoot, it is also too hot for dogs and cats.

During summertime, try to walk your pet early or late in the day to avoid the peak heat. If you have to walk your pet in the middle of the day, try to remain in shaded areas. Some pet owners opt to purchase boots to protect their animals’ paw pads from painful blistering.

Potential warning signs that your pet has burnt their paw pads include:

• Limping or not wanting to walk
• Darker or discolored pads
• Excessive licking of feet
• Blisters or extreme redness
• Torn or missing parts of the pads

If your dog suffers burns to their paw pads, immediately flush their paws with cold water or apply a cold compress. Burns can become infected, so if your pet’s symptoms are concerning, get in touch with your veterinarian.

Fireworks & Pet Safety

It wouldn’t be summer without fireworks and 4th of July celebrations! While many find the fireworks a captivating tradition, our four-legged friends might not be as keen on the loud noises that accompany the 4th. The holiday and the days leading up to it often bring the greatest number of runaway or lost pets throughout the year. Following a few simple 4th of July safety tips can help keep your pet calm during the firework displays and help them find their way back to you should they run away.