“Practice the “5 second rule” when walking outside with your dog. If you cannot keep the back of your hand on the asphalt or cement for at least 5 seconds, then it is too hot for your dog’s paws!“
The Heat is On
We all love the warm summertime in central Florida but sometimes the heat can be a bit much for our furry friends. It’s important that we make sure our pets are staying plenty hydrated and aren’t spending too much time in the sun during the next several months. Here are some tips to keep in mind over the summer for our cats and dogs:
- Provide plenty of fresh, clean water throughout the day to prevent dehydration.
- Watch for signs of overheating; like excessive panting, difficulty breathing, drooling, mild weakness, and increased heart rate. If you notice that your pet has any of these symptoms, please seek a veterinarian immediately.
- Never leave your pet in a hot car! It is illegal in several states and can be fatal.
- Don’t shave your dog. Their coat layers help cool them down and prevent them from getting sunburned.
- Practice the “5 second rule” when walking outside with your dog. If you cannot keep the back of your hand on the asphalt or cement for at least 5 seconds, then it is too hot for your dog’s paws!
- Don’t walk/jog/run with your dog in the middle of the day when the sun is highest in the sky. Dogs get dehydrated and overheat much quicker than we do. If you think it’s hot outside, imagine how hot your dog thinks it is!
We at Loch Haven Veterinary Hospital want everyone, including our pets, to have a fun and safe summer! If you are worried about your pet having any issues dealing with the heat over the summer please give us a call so that we can help!