SunLive – Tips for protecting your pets from the summer sun

With the onset of summer, pet owners are urged to pay close attention to the health and safety of their pets.

Exceptionally hot weather can quickly take its toll on furry family members, who are not well equipped to cope with scorching heat.

“While many rejoice in a hot summer, it can put additional stress on pets large and small,” says Michelle Le Long, chief operating officer at pet insurance provider PD. Insurance.

“But with a little more awareness on our part, our dogs and cats can enjoy the holidays as much as we do. “

Unlike humans, cats and dogs don’t cope particularly well with hot weather. After all, they are covered with an insulating fur coat. Neither species sweats like us.

Dogs, who are more likely to run outside, control their temperature by panting and sweating through their paws.

Cats, on the other hand, know a thing or two about evaporative cooling. They lick their coats in the summer to help control temperatures – dry saliva takes on heat, the same way human sweat works.

With that said, here are the top tips for keeping pets cool on a hot day:

1. Pets can become dehydrated quickly. Make sure there is plenty of cool, clean water, and make sure there is a cool, shaded area available where they can rest out of direct sunlight.

2. Don’t exercise too much. Just as you would seek shelter in the swimming pool or under a parasol in the heat of the day, do not take your pet prowling if it is very stuffy. Early morning and evening are the best.

3. Avoid hot sidewalks. Paws can burn, leaving your buddy in an unpleasant place and you with a potential vet bill. If you can’t walk on it barefoot, neither can they.

4. No cars parked. It’s more obvious, but it must be said: do not leave your pet in a parked car. Not only do parked cars act like an oven, heating up so quickly that even a few minutes can put your pet in trouble or worse, it is an offense. Those who stray can expect a well-deserved recall from the authorities to the tune of $ 300.

5. Trim does not shave. For those with long-haired cat or dog breeds, trim their manes into something a little cooler. But avoid the temptation to go too short: Fur coats might be a bit overdressed for summer, but they protect your pet from sunburn.

6. Avoid the burn. On this note, keep in mind that some breeds (eg Staffies, Dalmatians, and any pale puppy) are prone to sunburn, so take precautions. Use sunscreen specifically designed for animals. Other pets need to be actively cooled – snub-nosed dogs like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers, and cats like Persians, cannot pant effectively and may need a helping hand ( for example, a cool shower and / or a position under the air conditioning). Long haired cats may benefit from brushing more frequently, which helps keep the fur under control.

7. Watch for symptoms of heat stroke. An overheated animal may pant excessively, have difficulty breathing with an increased heart and respiratory rate, drool, display unusual weakness, appear “beside himself” or even collapse. Other more serious symptoms of heat stroke in pets include seizures, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting, as well as a body temperature above 40 degrees. If symptoms appear, cool your pet, offer water, and go directly to the nearest vet.

8. Be careful around the water. We love our beaches, rivers, lakes and streams, but these can be dangerous areas for your pets. Keep a close eye because, just like with other family members, staying calm can get them into trouble. Reduce the risk of your pet getting caught in a tear or swept away.

Le Long says a hot summer is something to look forward to.

“Make this the best summer by taking your pet with you to enjoy every moment, while being sure to take special care of their needs. And remember, a vet bill for an overheated pet can get expensive, but insurance can’t.

“We’ve made pet insurance quick, simple and affordable. So when your dog or cat needs health care or an accident, you don’t have to worry about the cost. “