DID YOU KNOW…Dogs and cats don’t sweat like humans do!
Humans sweat all over their bodies, and when that sweat evaporates, it cools down the body. Dogs and cats don’t sweat all over their bodies; the few ways they regulate temperature are very important.
Only their paw pads, noses, and ears can sweat. Dogs will also use heavy breathing, known as panting, to help keep cool. Cats can also be found breathing through their mouth for the same reasons. You might also find your cat is grooming themselves and their feet more in the summer. The saliva evaporating off their body gives a similar cooling result as a human’s sweat.
Hydrate
Ensure your pets have access to plenty of water to prevent dehydration, which can lead to heat stroke. Hydration also helps keep pets cool and prevents muscle spasms.
DOG TIP: An average dog will drink 1oz of water per 1lb of weight daily. For example, if your dog weighs 23lbs, they will drink an average of 23oz of water per day. The amount of water your dog will consume will increase when the temperatures are warmer.
Provide shade
Give your pets access to cool, shaded areas in your home or yard. You can also try using cooling mats and fans indoors.
Pet owners who keep animals outside in San Antonio are, as of 2018, required by law to provide them shade. This ordinance allows authorities to issue civil and criminal citations to violators that can carry fines of $300 and $2,000, respectively.
Groom regularly
Brushing your pet's coat can remove excess fur and improve air circulation, matted hair will make it harder for your pet to regulate temperature.
For long hair dogs, a slicker brush, or undercoat rake are great ways to help remove excess hair
Brushes like the Furminator, or similar off-brand versions, are great for maintaining a short coat.
Exercise in the morning or evening
Exercising your pets when it's cooler can help prevent heat stress and keep them off the hot pavement, which can burn their paws.
TIP: if you can’t keep the back of your hand on the pavement or concrete comfortably for more than 5 seconds, it’s too hot for your pet.
Use a “kiddie” pool or shallow bathtub for a quick cool-down
A small kiddie pool filled with cool water can be a fun way to help your dog stay cool and protect them from heat stroke and exhaustion.
For the bathtub, you can fill the bottom with 1-2 inches of water and let your pet’s paws rest in the cool water.
Frozen treats - easy to DIY!
Frozen treats can help cool your pet off and may also have other behavioral and nutritional benefits.
Easy Fruit to Freeze:
Watermelon, cut into squares or wedges
Frozen blueberries
Frozen carrot sticks
Avoid leaving pets in cars
It's illegal in some places and can be fatal even for a short time, even with the windows cracked.
In the city of San Antonio, It is illegal to leave any animal in a standing or parked vehicle. Any animal care officer or police officer is authorized to use reasonable force, including the breaking of a side window, to remove a pet from a car whenever it appears the animal's health or safety is endangered.
Pet Vaccination Clinic provides efficient and professional care without losing the personal touch.
Dr. Stan Leland opened Pet Vaccination Clinic, located at 1010 SW Military Drive in San Antonio, TX, on June 1, 1985. Since day one, Dr. Leland has provided compassionate care, taking the time to explain animal care thoroughly to clients so they can champion their pet’s health. Dr. Leland offers multiple services including, but not limited to, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, deworming, exams, health certificates, and heartworm preventative. Contact us here to make an appointment.