By Carrie A. Corson, from the July 2001 Newsletter

After a cool and wet spring, summer is a welcome season here on the Palouse. But just as we need to take precautions to avoid overexposure and dehydration for ourselves, we need to be sure our companion animals are protected too. For the most part, dogs and cats know best what to do in hot weather. For many pets their natural inclination is to lay in the shade, drink plenty of water and not overexert themselves. But pets don’t always know their limits and they do not always have control over their environment, so there are a few things that their people need to keep in mind.

Probably the most important thing to avoid is leaving dogs or cats in a vehicle during hot weather. Temperatures in a car can rise quite a lot higher than the outside temperature, even with the windows open. Since dogs and cats do not have sweat glands (except a few between their toes), they do not have an efficient cooling system for their bodies. This is why they pant. However, in very hot temperatures, panting is not all that effective. Heatstroke can result if your pet is left for too long (and this can be as little as 10 minutes). It can also be a result of overexertion (too much Frisbee-catching during the heat of the day), and being left in a crate or kennel without proper ventilation and/or shade.

Because heatstroke can cause brain damage or even death, it is important to know what to look for in order to offer first aid. Heatstroke symptoms include rapid, harsh breathing, very red mucous membranes and tongue, excessive drooling, unsteadiness and/or staggering, and (sometimes) vomiting.

If you suspect that your pet is suffering from heatstroke, place it in the shade or preferably an air-conditioned space. If its body temperature is above 104 F or the animal is staggering or isn’t getting up at all, you should take immediate action. Immerse your pet in a tub of cold water, keeping its nose above water. If a tub is not available, wrap your pet in cold wet towels or ice packs, or use a garden hose to soak them with. Offer your pet water, but do not force them to drink. Swelling in their throat can prevent swallowing. Once you’ve started this process, call your veterinarian. Further treatment may be necessary to save your pet. Note:  Flat faced animals—pugs, bulldogs, and Persian cats—are more susceptible to heatstroke, as are overweight pets, or those with heart or lung disease, or other breathing difficulties.

If you are traveling with your pet, be sure to stop often so that they can get out of the car and cool off. Stopping in an area where your dogs can go for a swim is a good idea. Of course most cats would not find this opportunity as pleasing. Also be sure to check your dogs’ home surroundings during the heat of the day, to ensure they have access to a cool place. A doghouse or garage may not be appropriate, as they too may become very hot if they are not in the shade. Also remember that your pets’ water intake will increase (doubling even) with the rise in temperature. So be sure to have plenty of cool, fresh drinking water available to them. Water for your dog to hang out in may be a good idea as well. A little plastic kiddie pool works really well. Your dog will love you for it.

© Copyright on articles, recipes and images are jointly held by the Moscow Food Co-op and the respective contributors, except were otherwise noted.

Return to Resource Page

For additions or corrections to this page, please contact the Webmaster.