If you’ve been around Texas long enough, you’ve heard the phrase, “you think it’s hot now, just wait until August” more than once. Well, we’re now only a day away from the high temp month and BOB has a few tips to keep your fur babies safe in the record-breaking heat.
1. This one is obvious: Don’t leave your pets in a parked car!
Not even if the car is on and the AC is on – don’t do it! Even on an 85-degree day, within 10 minutes, the temperature inside a vehicle can rise to 102 degrees with the windows cracked, according to the Humane Society of the United States. After 30 minutes, the temp will be 120 degrees and could cause your pet to suffer irreversible organ damage.
2. Limit exercise on hot days
Take extra care in the Summer when getting exercise for your pet. On very hot days, limit their workouts to early morning or evening hours and try to walk on the grass as much as possible to avoid burning your pup’s paws. If your pet has white-colored ears, take extra care as they are more susceptible to skin cancer. Also, keep an eye on short-nosed pets, who typically have difficulty breathing.
3. Watch for signs of heatstroke
Extreme temperatures can cause heatstroke even in your pets. Some signs of heatstroke are heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, seizure, and unconsciousness. If your pet is suffering from heat stroke, move them into the shade or an area with AC. Apply ice packs or cold towels to their head, neck, and chest or run cool (not cold) water over them.
Stay cool out there!
Photo Credit: Shutter Stock
