This is one of the hottest summers ever! I’m sure you’ve been sweating a lot recently.
There have been records of temperatures above 50 degrees Celsius in the country! This is very uncomfortable and is also potentially dangerous for you and your pet.
Specially your pet!
You have to be aware that your furbabies do not handle the summer heat like you do. Dogs have less sweat glands than humans. Most of them are found in their paw pads.
Dogs regulate overheating in a different way than people. Humans would basically sweat. A lot.
Our canine companions can’t perspire like we do. They would mostly use panting to make themselves cooler.
Other ways dogs regulate heat is by drinking water, lying down on a cool surface and moving to the shade.
Signs that your dog is overheating are:
1) Excessive panting and dribbling
2) Collapsing
3) Increased heart rate
4) Tremors
5) Loss of coordination
When your furbaby overheats, you should do the following:
1) Move to a cooler place
2) Offer water to drink
3) Wet the coat (don’t use ice water)
4) Call a veterinarian!
Why go to a professional veterinarian? Read more here.
Keep these in mind to prevent your dog from getting a heat stroke:
1) Make sure your fur baby is well hydrated.
2) If you exercise your pet, make sure you do it during the cooler times of the day.
3) Never leave your dog inside your car.
4) It may be good idea to keep your dog indoors, with air conditioning if necessary.
5) Avoid concrete, asphalt or any other surface that could absorb a lot of heat.
6) Stay in the shade.
Enjoy the summer break. Just make sure that you keep not only yourself safe, but also your canine companion!
How about you? If you are a responsible pet parent you will choose to go to an expert veterinarian for your pet needs.
Contact us at (02) 8896-6386 / 8896-2860 / 0908-896-7113 so we can set an appointment.
Do take note that Makati Dog and Cat Hospital serves you and your pet from 8AM to 3PM, Mondays to Saturdays.
Connect with us on our Facebook and Instagram.
Enjoy peace of mind,
Dr. Sixto Carlos, DVM, MS
Makati Dog and Cat Hospital
Serving Pet Parents near Mandaluyong, Makati, and BGC