Hot Weather Tips for Your Pet

Here are some pointers to make sure you and your pets are safe in the heat.

What are the warning signs of overheating in pets?

- Excessive panting, difficulty breathing, increased heart rate, drooling and weakness

- Petechiae (pinpoint, deep-red hemorrhages on gums/ skin), bright red mucous membranes on the gums and conjunctiva of the eyes

- Hyperventilation (gasping for air), staring, glassy eyes, anxious expression, refusal to obey commands and dry skin

Are certain breeds more likely to get heatstroke?

Yes, dogs and cats with flat faces (think pugs and Persian cats) are more susceptible as they can’t pant as effectively. Senior pets, puppies, overweight dogs and cats and ones with respiratory/lung problems should be in cool, air conditioned rooms.

Make Shade Your Friend

Since pets get dehydrated quickly in warm weather, make sure they have access to fresh and clean water and a shady place to escape the sun. Don’t overexert your pet. Keep them inside and take them out in the early morning and later in the afternoon when the sun is not as strong and it is not too hot.

Leaving your dog in a hot car is illegal in Connecticut. Under Connecticut State Statute, cruelty to animals can be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or a felony with fines of up to $1,000 and/or imprisonment of up to one year. If caught, you might also be required to attend counseling and participate in animal cruelty prevention and education programs as conditions of your probation.

"On a hot day, a parked car can become a furnace in no time-even with the windows open-which could lead to fatal heat stroke," says Dr. Louise Murray, Vice President of ASPCA Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital.

Practice Safe Water Sports!

Do not leave pets unsupervised around a pool. If your dog isn’t a good swimmer, introduce him gradually to the pool. Ensure they wear flotation devices when on boats. Rinse your dog off after swimming to remove chlorine or salt from his fur and try to keep your dog from drinking pool water (due to chlorine and other chemicals that could be ingested).

Don’t Let Your Pets Become Victims of "High-Rise Syndrome"

There is an increase in injured animals during summer months when pets (mostly cats) fall out of windows and off railings. Take simple precautions like screening windows and ensuring they are tightly secured to prevent accidents. Make sure kitty doesn’t get too hot and become disoriented.

Give Your Dog/Cat a New Do!

She’ll love the feel of a shorter cut (trim). Don’t shave your dog as layers of dogs’ coats protect them from overheating and sunburn. Persian cats often get "lion cuts" in the summer.

Learn more at West Hartford Pet Sitters.