Help Pets Beat the Heat

You may want sun and surf in the summer but your pets want shade and water.

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Without shade and water, dogs, cats and other pets can overheat, become ill and die within a short time. Summer is when pets have the greatest risk of injury and heat-related health problems. Here are some tips to keep them cool.

Watch for signs of heat stroke

Signs include rapid panting, lots of drooling, hot skin, twitching muscles, vomiting and a dazed look. Act quickly to cool down your pet - wrap it in a towel soaked with cool (not cold) water, or place it in a bathtub with cool water, or pour cool water over the pet. You can also put ice packs on the animal's head. Consult your veterinarian if your pet has heat stroke.

Provide plenty of fresh water

Dogs can only sweat by panting or through the pads of their feet. Water loss from the wet surfaces of their mouth and nose helps lower their body temperature. Pets need fresh water at home and outdoors, so take water with you for your pet.

Watch out for sunburn! Watch out for hot pavement and beaches

Sensitive paws burn easily. Water, sand and rock, at the beach reflect sunlight - your pet could get sunburn. Short hair pets and those with pink skin or white hair are most likely to burn. Control your pet's exposure to the sun - limit the time and provide shade.

Find a cool spot

Keep air circulating indoors for pets - use a fan or air-conditioning. Provide shade outdoors for pets. A gentle sprinkle from a garden hose is also helpful to keep them cool.

Watch how much pets eat and exercise

Overeating during hot weather can lead to overheating, so let your pets eat less. Also avoid exercise or vigorous activity during the hottest part of the day.

Never leave your pet in a parked car!

Even with the window open slightly or parked in the shade, when the temperature outside reaches 30°C the temperature inside a car can reach 50°C in minutes. This is extremely dangerous to your pet. Although your pet may want to come with you, it is much kinder to leave it at home with plenty of fresh cool water and shade.

Carry a spare key with you to avoid locking your pet accidentally in your car.

If your pet is accidentally locked in your car, call 911.

For more information or if you see a pet in distress because of heat-related causes call:
Toronto Animal Services 416-338-PAWS (7297)

Last updated July 2011