How to keep your pets cool in the heat

AMENIA —  The dog days of summer, named for Sirius, the Dog Star, traditionally end on Aug. 11, when the worst of the summer heat is supposedly finished. But in this, the hottest summer on record, temperatures continue to be high, which means animal owners need to remember to provide special care for their best friends.

According to Kirsten Peek, manager of media relations for the Humane Society of the United States, major priorities center on keeping animals cool and hydrated while maintaining a lookout for signs of heat stroke.

Most dogs enjoy outings with their owners, but Peek suggests that those  should be limited depending on temperatures and notes that early mornings and evenings provide the best opportunities.

Rather than exposing sensitive paws to hot surfaces, use grassy areas, or animal booties if that’s not possible.

Doghouses might look like havens, but in actuality, temperatures inside can rise to dangerous levels. Instead, rely on naturally shaded areas, tarps or awnings, which allow for better circulation.

Car rides can be a treat for most animals, but because temperatures inside can rise rapidly to deadly levels, animals should never be left alone in vehicles, even if windows are cracked. Leaving the air conditioner on is not a solution, as it might shut off or the animal could be exposed to other dangers if the car is running.

Above all, be certain that the animal has easy access to water at all times, and monitor for humidity changes, as a rise in that can amplify breathing problems. Those can be extreme, especially in animals with short snouts.

“Keeping a weather eye out” and forming emergency plans is also part of being a responsible pet owner. Needs might include back-up water supplies, managing possible evacuations, or devising ways to keep the animal cool during power outages.

Despite the best efforts, some animals may suffer from potentially deadly heat stroke, which requires immediate attention.

According to Peek: “Some signs of heat stroke in animals include heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst and vomiting. Keep in mind, taking a dog’s temperature will quickly tell you if there is a serious problem. Dogs’ temperatures should not reach over 104 degrees.”

If heat stroke is suspected, she said: “Call your veterinarian immediately. In the meantime, move your pet into the shade or air-conditioned area. Apply ice packs or cold towels to their head, neck and chest or run cool (not cold) water over them. Let them drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice cubes.”

As always, having a locator chip embedded in the pet can provide one more level of protection — winter or summer — which will help owner and pet to always be together.