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Pet CareSummer Care The sky is blue, the sun is shining and everybody is getting out their summer gear. But with all the plans for days at the beach and walks in the park please don't forget your canine friend has a fur coat and no access to the cool drinks cabinet. Although dogs have sweat glands all over their bodies, it is only the ones on their foot pads that keep them cool. These glands however are not particularly effective and dogs actually lose more excess heat through panting. When dogs pant, they breathe rapidly, open mouthed with their tongues hanging out. As the air circulates through the mouth and nose moisture evaporates, taking the heat with it. Because of the loss of water a panting dog can quickly dehydrate so a constant supply of fresh water is absolutely essential. The best place for your dog on a hot day is at home in a shaded room with a couple of windows open to allow the air to circulate. If your dog particularly suffers from the heat an electric fan will go a long way to making him more comfortable. One of the worst things you can do to a dog is keep him tied up but if the sun is shining it is particularly cruel. Make sure that his kennel is in a very shaded spot ie; The side passage or an open garage and that he never runs out of water while you are at work. During the summer take your dog for his walks in the early morning or late afternoon but never ever in the midday sun. Too much exertion in the heat could put strain on his cardiovascular and respiratory systems and he could also burn his paws on the hot pavement. If you are planning to take your dog for a fairly long walk please remember to take a plastic dish and a bottle of water with you. Going swimming is a way both dogs and humans cool down in the summer heat but beware, if your dogs pops in for a dip dry him off with a towel or keep him in the shade until he is dry as dogs like people do get sunburn. Driving Most of us have experienced that horrible feeling when you get into the car on a hot summers day and the windows and doors have been closed, first your burn your bum on the seat then your burn your hands on the steering wheel and the air is so heavy you cannot breathe. Imagine getting into that car with a heavy woolly jumper on and you will feel what your dog feels. But what is uncomfortable for us can be fatal for your dog never leave a pet in a parked car for any length of time just ten minutes in a car in sunshine and a dog can collapse even on overcast days. If you really must travel with your dog in your car during the summer months do not go for long distances without stopping to let him cool down. Make sure he has plenty to drink and leave your window down (Not forgetting of course to secure the dog so he cannot jump out). A window shade will help to keep out the sunlight but will not cool the air. Finally, keep a close eye on your dog during hot weather keep him cool by having a spray bottle full of fresh water to dampen down his coat occasionally and if you see any signs of distress i.e.; heavy panting, drooling, weakness, lips and tongue turning bright red a staring expression, diarrhoea or vomiting take action immediately. Put your dog in the shower or hose him down with cool water, if this is not possible cover him in a wet towel. Do not immerse your dog in water unless it is an emergency as their is a danger in overcooling. Dry him off and place him in a cool spot. If you are still worried contact your vet immediately If you see a dog tied up in distress of locked in a car in the heat for any length of time please don't hesitate to contact the gardai. Cats The rules are very much the same as with dogs. Lots of water, shady spots and ventilation. Those of you with white cats remember they are very prone to skin cancer on their ears and need a high factor sun screen at all times during the summer. I hope these guidelines will help you and your pet have an enjoyable and healthy summer.  To Pet Care Section |
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