As summer is finally upon us and we are outside more and more, it’s a good time for a refresher on how to keep our pets safe.
Starting with the sun — both cats and dogs are at risk for heat stroke. Heat stroke or heat exhaustion can be caused by direct and prolonged exposure to a hot or humid environment or after strenuous exercise.
I’m sure you’ve seen all the posts, but it is worth repeating: Do. Not. Leave. Your. Pet. In. The. Car. Even if the windows are open. Even if you are only going to be a minute. It’s not worth the risk.
Cats and dogs have limited ability to dissipate heat. They can only sweat through the pads of their feet and through panting.
If the air or surfaces are as hot and humid they are not able to cool themselves. Their body temperature rises rapidly and can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, seizures and death.
Heat stroke is less commonly seen in cats but is still possible. Most cases reported are due to cats being left in vehicles (again, just don’t.)
To prevent heat stroke, make sure they have adequate shade and water when outside.
Avoid being outside for long periods if it is particularly hot and/or humid, particularly for dogs with short noses.
If you suspect your pet has become overheated, cool them immediately. Bring them to an area which is shady and cool.
Direct a fan over them – wet their paws, ears with cool water or submerge with cool or tepid water (not their heads). And contact your veterinarian for veterinary care as soon as possible.
Another danger for pets in the sun is sunburn! Yes, pets, particularly those with light coloured, or short/thin coats, can be prone to sun burns just like us! The area appears red and may experience hair loss.
This is commonly seen on the top of the nose, ear tips, on the groin, insides of legs and belly as the skin is thin and hair coverage decreased.
Can you use sunscreen? Also Yes! Fragrance-free, non-staining, UVA/UVB barriers similar to SPF 15-30 can be used on your pets. There are pet-specific products.
For cats, make sure the label specifically states they are okay to use in cats. For human sunscreens, baby sunscreens may be safe — but watch for ingestion warnings — they may contain toxic ingredients and if you put something on your dogs they are going to lick it.
When it comes to water, dogs in particular can be obsessive. Einstein will play fetch for hours in the lake getting slower and slower each time he gets his frisbee but still begging to throw it one more time.
It is important to monitor your pets activity level so they do not injure themselves. One particular injury we see more in the summer is Limber tail or swimmer’s tail.
Dogs use their trail as a rudder when swimming and after excessive swimming the tail can essentially become sprained. It's very painful initially and most owners report the tail just “hanging there.”
Treatment involves rest, and pain management. It usually resolves over the course of a few days to a couple weeks.
Our summer season is so short, take the precautions to ensure you and your pet are safe to make the most of it!
Dr. Courtney Andrews is a Sudbury veterinarian, a graduate of the Royal School of Veterinary Studies and dog mom to Argyll and Einstein.
