Summer Pet Tips From Our Collierville Veterinarian to Prevent Heat Exhaustion
At Collierville Animal Clinic & Surgery Center, our veterinarian and team would like to provide you with some essential summer pet tips for keeping your dog or cat safe from heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and similar heat-related ailments. Unfortunately, we see too many instances of these during the sweltering summer months—but the good news is that heat exhaustion in pets is 100% preventable!
Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke Symptoms
Pet owners should begin by being aware of some of the most common symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. A pet suffering from heat exhaustion will generally show the following signs:
- excessive panting and/or drooling
- overall lethargy or fatigue
- loss of appetite
Pets suffering from a more serious condition known as heat stroke could be at greater immediate risk and may display signs such as:
- red, swollen gums
- loss of consciousness
If your pet shows any signs of heat stroke, it's important to see a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Prevent Your Pet from Over Heating
Protecting your pet from heat exhaustion and heat stroke is as easy as being aware of outdoor temperatures and weather conditions. Make sure your pet has access to ample fresh water and shade on days when he or she spends time outdoors. And remember, if it's too hot for you to be outside, it's probably too hot for your pet as well. Offer dogs and cats plenty of breaks from being outdoors, and don't go on walks with your dog on hot pavement; instead, walk your dog during the early morning and evening hours.
Finally, never leave your pet inside a car unattended, even if you only plan on doing so for a few minutes. It doesn't take long for temperatures to reach fatal levels inside a vehicle.
Contact Our Collierville Veterinarian
If your pet shows signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, don't delay in seeing our Collierville veterinarian as soon as possible. You can reach us by calling Collierville Animal Clinic & Surgery Center at (901) 853-8519.
