How Heatwaves Affect Our Pets

This is the time of year some of us are experiencing heatwaves. We must all be mindful of our animals, and keep them indoors with fresh water with an ice cube to cool the water down and give your pet something to play with. They also need a cool place to hang out. 

I researched heatwaves and how they can affect our precious pets. Just as humans can get heatstroke, so can cats and dogs. 

The signs

to watch for are:

1. If your dog is panting excessively or your cat is open-mouth breathing or panting

2. If the color of your dog or cat’s gums changes to brick-red and blue-purple

3. If your dog or cat is drooling more than usual

4. If your dog or cat is lethargic or if they collapse

5. If your dog or cat is going into seizures

If they are experiencing any of these signs, call their vet immediately.

We also need to be mindful of leaving your animal in a locked car. On a day when the temperature is 90 degrees, the inside of a vehicle can reach 138 degrees! Please do not take your dog or cat out in a car just to leave him sitting while you do your errands. Think about how you would feel in 138 degrees. 

In a nutshell, we need to be thoughtful and loving towards our pets. After all, they are part of our family.