How Does Heat Affect Pets?
High temperatures can pose a serious threat to dogs and cats, as they struggle more than humans to regulate their body heat. Unlike people, pets lack sweat glands across their bodies. Instead, they rely on panting and sweating through their paw pads to cool down.
Dr Barbara Hodges from the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association explains:
“High humidity worsens the effects of heat by making it harder for pets to cool themselves, exposing them to dangerous conditions.”
Pets are also more vulnerable to heat radiated from surfaces like asphalt, which can cause severe burns. Their proximity to the ground further intensifies their exposure to heat during the hottest parts of the day.
Recognising Heatstroke in Pets
Heatstroke occurs when an animal’s internal temperature rises to dangerous levels, damaging organs and tissues. In dogs, a critical temperature is around 41°C. Common causes include prolonged exposure to heat, high humidity, and lack of water or shade.
Symptoms of heatstroke in pets include:
- Heavy panting
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
- Collapse or seizures
Vulnerable groups include young, elderly, and overweight pets, as well as brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like bulldogs and pugs, which have respiratory difficulties.
What to Do if Your Pet Shows Signs of Heatstroke
Immediate action can save your pet’s life. Veterinary expert Marcelo Zysman stresses the importance of a rapid response, as internal damage progresses quickly. Here’s what to do:
- Move your pet to a cool, shaded area.
- Apply cool (not ice-cold) compresses to their neck, abdomen, and thighs.
- Offer small amounts of fresh water.
- Wet their body with cool water and increase airflow using fans or air conditioning.
- Contact a vet immediately.
Preventing Heat-Related Issues in Pets
Prevention is crucial to protect pets from heat-related problems. Key recommendations include:
- Provide fresh, clean water at all times, adding ice on very hot days.
- Create shaded areas in outdoor spaces.
- Avoid exercise during peak heat hours (11:00 am to 4:00 pm).
- Feed lighter, fresh foods and avoid calorie-dense carbohydrates.
- Place damp towels in resting areas to help them cool off.
Tips for Walks and Travel During Summer
Exercise and travel require careful planning in hot weather to keep pets safe:
- Walk your pets early in the morning or late in the evening when it’s cooler.
- Avoid hot surfaces like asphalt. Test by placing your hand on it—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.
- Carry water and portable bowls to keep them hydrated during walks.
- Never leave pets in a parked vehicle. Temperatures inside cars can quickly exceed 50°C, even with windows open.
- Use air conditioning or sunshades in vehicles and make regular stops for hydration.
Risks for Vulnerable Breeds
Brachycephalic breeds, such as bulldogs and pugs, face higher risks due to their narrow airways. Studies indicate they are more than twice as likely to suffer from heatstroke compared to other breeds.
Other risk factors include:
- Obesity: Increases heat retention.
- Thick fur: Reduces natural ventilation.
- Health conditions: Heart or respiratory issues hinder their ability to cope with heat.
Caring for Stray and Outdoor Animals
Animals living outdoors or on the streets face extreme risks during heatwaves. Here’s how you can help:
- Leave containers of fresh water in shaded areas.
- Set up makeshift shelters using tarps or cardboard to provide shade.
- Guide stray animals to grassy or dirt paths to avoid hot pavements.
- In emergencies, gently wet the animal to cool them down and seek veterinary help or contact a local animal shelter.
By taking these precautions, you can protect pets and other animals from the dangers of extreme heat, ensuring they stay safe and healthy during the hottest days of summer.