As the weather continues to warm up, it’s important to take precautions to keep you pet safe and cool. Never leave you animal alone in the car, as temperatures can soar within minutes even with the windows cracked.
When going for walks, test the pavement with your palm. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. On especially hot days, you’ll want to take walks earlier in the morning and later at night when the temperature is a bit cooler.
Ensure your pet has access to shade and regulate the temperature in your home, if possible. Watch your pet for difficulty breathing, vomiting, bright red gums, blue tongue or lips, or diarrhea – these are all signs of potential heat stroke.
If your pet is showing any symptoms, move them to a cool place and start to lower their body temperature gradually with cool (not icy) water and contact your vet right away.