News You Can Use
Sun and heat can get a dog down, too
University Relations
News Bureau (662) 325-3442
Contact: Susan Hughes
Aug. 7, 2006
STARKVILLE, Miss.-It's doggone hot outside-and downright dangerous for our four-legged friends.
While most humans know how to protect themselves from the heat, pets, which are equally vulnerable to extreme summer temperatures, need their owners to keep them safe.
"Heat and humidity are the worst things for pets this time of year," Dr. Mark Russak of Mississippi State University. The assistant clinical professor at the College of Veterinary Medicine points out that dogs can easily overheat and suffer a potentially fatal heat stroke.
Abundant shade and water always should be made available, he adds.
Especially susceptible are bulldogs and other breeds with short snouts that have trouble breathing during even normal conditions. Dogs with long, thick fur also succumb easily to heat.
Russak offers several tips for keeping pets safe from the heat and sun, including:
- Limiting a pet's exercise time;
- Avoiding hard-surface pavements, especially blacktop, that can burn foot pads;
- Leaving dogs at home when shopping; even with the conditioning left running, they shouldn't be unattended in vehicles this time of year;
- Avoiding over-exposure to sunlight by dogs with thin coats-they can burn;
- Having long-haired breeds shaved; and
- Keeping dogs trim because heavy animals tend to suffer more from the heat.
Russak says owners can continue to enjoy exercise and play with their pet, adding, "It's just a matter of moderation." He recommends waiting until late afternoon or after sunset to take that dog walk.
Promptly seek veterinary assistance if the canine develops a blue tint to its tongue, becomes restless, begins panting excessively, or literally passes out. All are signs of heat stroke and dehydration, Russak warns.