How To Handle The Heat
Temperatures and humidity levels are setting records in Sheboygan County this
summer. This presents a special problems for many of our pets.
Many times owners simply do not think of the dangers the heat causes.
Here are several points to remember.
- Dogs and cats do NOT sweat! Panting is the major means of getting rid excess
heat for dogs and cats. However, with the heat also goes the water from the
moistened exhaled air. This is why extra water is needed.
- Panting uses more energy. Many people think that with hot weather less food
is needed. Since panting uses many muscles more energy is used. If we do not
provide for this increased energy usage our pets will loose a great deal of
weight and possible cause other medical problems.
- NEVER leave your pet in a car during the Summer days without the air conditioner
working well. A car interior reaches well above 180 degrees within just a
few minutes. The level of heat can quickly cause heat exhaustion and death.
Just think, would you enjoy that level of heat if you had to stay in the car
while your spouse took 20 minutes to grab something at the market? Especially
if you couldn't sweat?!
- Look out for biting flies. Biting flies often attack the ears and nose of
outdoor animals. These wounds can become infected and cause serious problems.
Fly repellant ointments or Avon Skin-So-soft is often used to repel insects.
Diluting the SSS will help keep it from being so oily.
- If you are outside with your pet always supply cool water.
- In really hot weather or high humidity, discourage your pet from running
or excessive exercise.
- In very humid weather never leave your animal outside.
- Leave your pet indoors in an area with good ventilation (ie. fans) and
lots of fresh cool water.
- If it is extremely humid in your home you might wish to sponge down your
dog or cat with cool water before you leave for the day. This will help them
to remain cool for a while after you leave.
- Limit the time your cat or dog spends in the sun, especially light-haired
animals with little fur coverage. Try not to let your pet outside between
10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- You may wish to apply strong sun screen to sun prone areas on your pet like
the top of the nose, ear tips and belly. Be sure to check with your vet before
applying any sun screen to your animal.
- Avoid shaving your dog too close to the skin during the summer months as
you are exposing their skin to the perils of sunburn.
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