Allin1PetCare
09-11-2008, 06:38 AM
Riding the Heat Wave!
By All In One Pet Care
Published in the Humane Society of St. Lucie County Newsletter, Volume 31 / August 2008
It’s that time of the year, and we're dealing with soaring temperatures. The heat can be even harder on our pets. As a professional, I’m often asked questions regarding the heat and its effect on dogs. Here are some answers to the more commonly asked questions.
Can dogs get sunburn? YES! You can asses their tolerance based on coat’s thickness and color. Primarily black coats are less prone to sunburn, but chances for overheating are higher. If his coat is naturally long and thick but you keep it trimmed short, then he is more prone to sunburn because his skin is not accustomed to sun exposure. If he has a thin coat, the skin is clearly visible in certain areas, and he’s not accustomed to lengthy sun exposure, he is also more prone to sunburn. If his coat is all, or primarily white, and has a pink nose, then he’s definitely more prone to sunburn, because he lacks the pigmentation for protection against the sun. However, if his nose is dark, then his chances a lessened, but you should still take precautions. There are now several pet sunscreen products available. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations, and remember, when in doubt, always err on the side of caution.
How do I know if my pet is overheating? Pets that are overweight, have a thick coat, heart, vascular, or lung problems, are younger, older, larger, ill, overexerted, as well short muzzled and Brachycephalic dogs, are at a greater risk for overheating. Signs that your pet may be overheating: they’re hyperventilating, sluggish, unresponsive or disoriented, their tongue, gums and inner eyelids are bright red, and may even start to vomit. Pets that are overheated can develop heat stroke and die in a matter of minutes so if your pet shows any signs of overheating, treat it as an emergency, and take them to a veterinarian immediately.
How can I keep my dog cool? Dogs cool themselves primarily through their nose, then panting, and finally through blood vessel dilation. His nose works much like our sweat glands. As the moisture on his nose dries, it cools his body. Panting works similar to an air conditioner; he breathes cool air in through his nose, and hot air out through his mouth. As he gets warmer, he will regularly lick his nose, and will extend his tongue further to provide a wider and longer cooling system. As his temperature continues to rise, he will dilate the blood vessels just under skin of the face, ears, and feet. If you’re outdoors, then the best place for your dog is in the shade, where there’s a breeze, and low humidity. Make sure your dog is taking the proper steps to cool down or do it for him by wetting his nose, providing plenty of water and ice cubes, and regularly wiping the areas of markedly shorter hair with a cool, damp cloth.
By All In One Pet Care
Published in the Humane Society of St. Lucie County Newsletter, Volume 31 / August 2008
It’s that time of the year, and we're dealing with soaring temperatures. The heat can be even harder on our pets. As a professional, I’m often asked questions regarding the heat and its effect on dogs. Here are some answers to the more commonly asked questions.
Can dogs get sunburn? YES! You can asses their tolerance based on coat’s thickness and color. Primarily black coats are less prone to sunburn, but chances for overheating are higher. If his coat is naturally long and thick but you keep it trimmed short, then he is more prone to sunburn because his skin is not accustomed to sun exposure. If he has a thin coat, the skin is clearly visible in certain areas, and he’s not accustomed to lengthy sun exposure, he is also more prone to sunburn. If his coat is all, or primarily white, and has a pink nose, then he’s definitely more prone to sunburn, because he lacks the pigmentation for protection against the sun. However, if his nose is dark, then his chances a lessened, but you should still take precautions. There are now several pet sunscreen products available. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations, and remember, when in doubt, always err on the side of caution.
How do I know if my pet is overheating? Pets that are overweight, have a thick coat, heart, vascular, or lung problems, are younger, older, larger, ill, overexerted, as well short muzzled and Brachycephalic dogs, are at a greater risk for overheating. Signs that your pet may be overheating: they’re hyperventilating, sluggish, unresponsive or disoriented, their tongue, gums and inner eyelids are bright red, and may even start to vomit. Pets that are overheated can develop heat stroke and die in a matter of minutes so if your pet shows any signs of overheating, treat it as an emergency, and take them to a veterinarian immediately.
How can I keep my dog cool? Dogs cool themselves primarily through their nose, then panting, and finally through blood vessel dilation. His nose works much like our sweat glands. As the moisture on his nose dries, it cools his body. Panting works similar to an air conditioner; he breathes cool air in through his nose, and hot air out through his mouth. As he gets warmer, he will regularly lick his nose, and will extend his tongue further to provide a wider and longer cooling system. As his temperature continues to rise, he will dilate the blood vessels just under skin of the face, ears, and feet. If you’re outdoors, then the best place for your dog is in the shade, where there’s a breeze, and low humidity. Make sure your dog is taking the proper steps to cool down or do it for him by wetting his nose, providing plenty of water and ice cubes, and regularly wiping the areas of markedly shorter hair with a cool, damp cloth.