Pets that have symptoms of heat stroke should be cooled off with lukewarm water or wrapped in a wet towel and taken to your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Tips to prevent heat stroke: Make sure any pet that goes outside during hot weather has access to plenty of shade and cool water. Keep exercise to a minimum during the hottest parts of the day, even if your pet is physically fit. Never leave pets confined to a car in hot weather.
Brachycephalic breeds (such as pugs, Boston terriers, bulldogs, and Persian cats) are at increased risk of heat stroke because of their conformation.
BARBEQUES. Fun for humans. Dangerous for pets. Here’s why: 1. Hot grease can splatter and burn your pet. 2. Pets can burn their tongues by licking the sides of a hot grill. 3. Beware of wooden skewers! Even small dogs can swallow these with ease. (Getting them back up again is much harder. Pets that swallow skewers usually need surgery to remove them.)
THUNDERSTORMS AND THINGS THAT GO BANG. Summertime is full of loud noises that can send even the bravest pet running for cover. If these make your pet panic, ask your veterinarian for suggestions. In the meantime, make sure your pets are safely confined during storms, firework displays, or other periods of loud noises.
FLY STRIKE. Older or ill pets that spend time outside are at risk for fly strike. Animals that develop fly strike often have open sores or wounds OR they urinate or defecate on themselves and can’t clean the area. Flies lay eggs, eggs hatch, and suddenly your pet is infested with maggots. Your veterinarian can remove the maggots and help you find the reason your pet may have been vulnerable.
