Pets and Extreme Weather

When temperatures outside our doors rise or fall, we dress accordingly. Thick scarves and wool sweaters come out for winter, flip-flops and straw hats appear for summer.  

While taking into account your own comfort, pause for a moment and think about the comfort of your pets. While the temperature inside the doghouse in the backyard may have been just fine in late spring/early summer, the heavy heat of July and August may be too much for your dog to withstand. Remember, dogs can't tell us when they are overheating so it's important that we as owners recognize the signs - hyperventilating, heavy panting, or a discolored tongue. 

Similarly, don't ever leave a pet in a parked car, even in a shaded area. Cars heat up quickly due to the greenhouse effect and heatstroke can occur within minutes. If you see an animal trapped inside a car during the hot months, try to locate the owner and calmly and politely explain the dangers, or call the police. 

During these same warm months, make sure you have plenty of water available for your pets at all times, as well as shaded areas for them to relax in. If you have a swimming pool, make sure it is inaccessible to your dog or puppy, as each year sees many accidental drowning deaths for dogs - even those that are strong swimmers - in backyard pools. 

Pets are fun in all temperatures, so it's our job as owners to see that all temperatures remain fun for our pets. 

Article by Dr. Jeff Werber, DVM