Temperatures are rising and that can be quite painful and dangerous for our pets. Learn about these summer hazards and how to protect your pet below!
Burned Paws
Our pets’ feet carry them a long way through life and seem to be much more durable than our own toes. While cats’ and dogs’ paws are much more effective at distributing weight than our feet, they are just as susceptible to burning. If you’re about to go for a walk and feel the sidewalk or asphalt is too hot for your feet, it’s too hot for your pet’s. The best option is to wait to walk your pets during cooler hours (early morning or later in the evening) after the ground has had time to cool off.
Heat Stroke
Unfortunately, cats and dogs can’t cool down by sweating like we do. As a result, they are able to overheat even more quickly than we are during these hot months. This can happen in the car (please do not leave your animal or child in a car on a hot day!), on a walk, or while hanging out in the background. Heat stroke can be fatal or permanently damaging to your animal, so be sure to prevent it! Make sure your animal has access to fresh water and a place out of direct sunlight. Though your pet may love to go on hikes or jogs, it may be best to avoid these entirely during hot months. Bring your pet into air conditioning or a cool room after being outside in the heat. You can also supply your pet with a cool bath or a kiddy pool for them to play with on hot days.
Burned paw pads and heat stroke are nothing to joke about. If you think your pet is suffering from either of these conditions, please call your veterinarian (or an emergency animal hospital) as soon as possible.
Here at Emerald Animal Hospital, our top priority is your pet’s health. If you have any questions about your pet’s health or these common summer dangers, give us a call at 216-749-7161. We’d love to meet you and your pet and help you enjoy the best summer yet!