Home Dog Health Cool Care for Dogs in Hot Summer Months

Cool Care for Dogs in Hot Summer Months

Charles Mintzer, DVM reveals the best way to safeguard pets during the hot summer months.

by Steve Johnson, staff
July 15, 2004

Dr. Charles Mintzer, DVM, a veterinarian with The Pet Medical Center in Pomona, CA, has prepared some information to help dog owners keep their pets cool during the hot summer months, and to help them identify signs of heat-related illnesses. Heat exhaustion and heat stress are serious conditions can often be fatal to pets.

Dr. Mintzer and the staff recommend these simple safeguards to follow during the summertime period:

• Make sure there is plenty of water available at all times (add ice cubes throughout the day).

• Provide adequate shade for out door activities.

• Keep pets indoors during day time peak periods.

• Pets with heavy coats should be brushed daily or clipped down for in summer months.

To determine whether an animal is at risk, watch for these simple warnings signs of possible heat-related illness:

• Labored (open mouth) breathing

• Listless behavior

• Drinking large amounts of water

• Panting

• Non-responsiveness

• Vomiting and diarrhea.

According to Dr. Mintzer “If you pet becomes ill during the summer months due to heat stress or heat exhaustion, immediately seek veterinary care. Normal body temperature for dogs and cats is higher than for humans, ranging from 100 degrees to 102.5. During hot days, the body temperature can soar to 105 degrees and above,”

For further information, please call (909)-622-1044. The Pet Medical Center is located in Pomona, California and the hospital address is 3070 Temple Avenue.

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