August - Pets and Heat Don't Mix Month

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Temperatures are awfully hot, be sure your pet has a cool spot! Temperatures in your vehicle rise quite quickly so please avoid leaving your pet in the car on warm days.


We are not the only ones affected by the hot days – our pets are too.  As hot as it is outside, imagine how much warmer it is in your car.  Despite windows being cracked and parking in the shade, it can take just 10 minutes for the temperature to raise about 20 degrees.

While all pets are at risk for heat stroke, some can be more susceptible to distress in the warmer temperatures.  Young, elderly, overweight, thick/dark haircoat, as well as short muzzled pets (brachiocephalic breeds, such as Boxer, Bulldog, Pug, Pekinese) are most at risk.  Primarily, dogs regulate their body temperature through panting.  Dogs do sweat, mainly through the footpads, but only a small fraction of a dog's excess heat is lost this way.  

On warm days, keep your pet out of the heat.  Be sure your pet always has fresh, cool water available at all times (whether indoor or outdoor).   Dogs can benefit from small baby pools in the yard to get in and out of on warm days (to keep their feet cooler).  If you are worried that your pet may be overheating, seek veterinary attention immediately.  Just because your pet seems ‘ok’ does not necessarily mean they are ‘fine.’  Heat stroke and its secondary complications can be fatal.