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Summer Warnings For Pet Owners

Summer is still here - and the month of August tends to bring Wisconsin some if it's hottest days. But all the fun that comes along with summer heat can cause serious health problems for pets. To follow is a list of summer warnings pet owners should consider:

Heat is Deadly!

Pets are unable to perspire therefore they depend upon panting and breathing to get rid of body heat. They need fresh, cool air to inhale in order to cool their bodies. To prevent heat stroke in your pet you must provide good ventilation, plenty of shade and fresh, cool water. A child's shallow swimming pool filled with cool water gives a pet a place to cool off when housed outside. A summer haircut can also help cool the system.

Common situations that lead to heat stroke in pets include jogging in the heat or being locked in an enclosed space such as a parked car, garage, kennel, or within the home with out air conditioning or fans.

Signs of heat stroke include excessive panting, red gums and tongue, loud noises when breathing, skin warm to the touch, difficulty breathing and distressed attitude. Heat stroke can also cause shock, bleeding, seizures, coma and even death.

If you think your pet may be suffering from heat stroke, rinse the pet with cool (not ice cold) water and transport the pet to a veterinarian immediately. It is critical that a veterinarian examines a pet as soon as possible because damage to internal organs is a common complication and may not be apparent by looking at your pet.

Bee Stings and Spider/Insect Bites

Bees, yellow jackets, wasps, hornets, spiders and fire ants are common problems for pets. They attack the face and paws of pets who like to investigate and play with them. Most reactions manifest as itching with swelling of the face, eyes and ears. However, life-threatening reactions can result in difficulty breathing and throat swelling. If this occurs, get your pet to a vet immediately. To minimize stings and bites, survey your yard for nests and hives and discourage your pet from playing with insects.

Sunburn

Even though dogs and cats have a coat of fur, they are still susceptible to sunburn - especially pets with white coats. Areas with little hair on top of the head, such as the bridge of the nose and ears, are very sensitive. Provide adequate shade and apply a waterproof 35 SPF sunscreen to any exposed skin areas.

Pet owners with questions should contact their veterinarian or the Animal Emergency Center Hotline at 414-540-6710.