Now that the summer heat is firmly upon the Space Coast, we need to make sure we are keeping cool — and we must remember about our furry companions too. With the rising temperatures, our pets depend on us to make sure they stay refreshed all day. Make these helpful changes to their daily schedule to help our four-legged friends beat the heat this season.
Provide lots and lots of water
Just like us, our dogs need ample amounts of water in order to prevent dehydration and heatstroke, which can be fatal. Always keep a close eye out for an empty water bowl, both inside and outside of the house, and always refill with fresh cold water. Add ice cubes on particularly hot days.
Never leave your pet in a locked car
Even when running into the store for just 30 seconds, with both the windows cracked and the air conditioner on, temperatures can still skyrocket to an unbearable degree. Leaving pets unattended for “just a second” is never a good choice and is a huge risk.
Let there be shade
Every dog loves to run outside and chase tennis balls, but without the proper shady spot to cool off and relax, they may overheat. Provide a nice grassy area with plenty of shade. Umbrellas and tents are an easy way to provide shade. For some extra fun in the sun, add a plastic kiddie pool to splash around in to keep cool.
sidewalks get Hot! Hot! Hot!
Many owners love to walk their dogs and the exercise is great. However, be aware that the sidewalks can heat up very quickly with the summer sun. This may cause your pooch serious discomfort, possibly
even blistering their pads. Shifting your exercise schedule to either earlier morning before the heat or late evening when the sidewalks have had time to cool off is a great way to avoid these hazards. Always bring a bottle of water and water bowl for your walks to help stay hydrated.
Be cautious at the beach
If you are heading to the beach with your pets watch out for the sizzling sand. Hot sand can burn your pup’s paws. Also, be cautious of your dog’s skin. In areas that are more exposed or have thinner hair, such as the nose and ears, you may apply sunscreen designed for your dog to prevent them from burning. Some fun treats your dog can enjoy while soaking up the rays at the beach are frozen bananas, ice cubes and homemade peanut butter popsicles.
Keep your eyes open for Signs of Heatstroke
With all the extra outside activity you and your pets are enjoying this summer, remember to stay on the lookout for heatstroke – especially in dogs that are overweight, old, very young or have heart/respiratory disease. Common signs are:
- Excessive panting
- Rapid heartbeat
- Excessive drooling
- Dark or bright tongue/gums
- Staggering
- Body temperature ranging from 104-110
- Bloody diarrhea/vomiting
In the event that your pet is experiencing any of the above signs, immediately contact Animal Emergency and Critical Care Center of Brevard. Animal Emergency and Critical Care Center of Brevard (AECC) is Brevard’s leading full-service emergency and specialty veterinary hospital, whose goal to provide the highest quality care, utilizing the best trained veterinary personnel available. AECC is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for your convenience. A veterinarian and full complement of staff are always on premises.
AECC’s Board Certified Specialists include a surgeon, neurologist, internist, cardiologist, and dermatologist. The Brevard Zoo’s Board Certified Zoological Veterinarian visits monthly to treat avian and exotics. A Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist and Certified Acupuncturist is also on staff.
AECC also offers the most comprehensive imaging services and has invested in the most current non-invasive diagnostic imaging equipment that helps to accurately and quickly diagnose your pet’s condition. X-rays, ultrasounds, MRI and CT scans are just a few of the many imaging services that AECC provides for your pet.
Now that you are aware of the dangers the heat may bring and how to prevent them, have a safe and “pawsome” summer season with your furry friends!
Animal Emergency and Critical Care Center of Brevard
2281 W. Eau Gallie Blvd. | Melbourne, FL 32935
(321) 725-5365 | CentralFloridaAnimalER.com
