Summer is the time to get outside and enjoy fun in the sun, but Reno’s steamy temperatures can put your pet’s health at risk. Our Monte Vista Animal Hospital team knows you want to include your pet in your summertime activities, so we offer details about fictional case studies that highlight the importance of taking precautions to keep your four-legged friend safe from heat-related dangers. 

Peggy the pug’s patio predicament

Peggy typically enjoys spending time on the patio where she can observe the birds and squirrels and maybe grab a little shut-eye. However, her owner forgot to check the weather forecast and left Peggy on the patio for over an hour on a day when temperatures reached the high 90s. Peggy got really hot, started panting heavily, and was on the verge of collapse when her owner checked on her. Fortunately, Peggy’s veterinarian provided cooling methods and intravenous fluids that cooled her down sufficiently before significant complications occurred.

Heat stroke is a serious, potentially life-threatening condition that can quickly result in significant body-wide health complications. Brachycephalic pets, such as pugs, bulldogs, shih tzus, boxers, and Persian cats, are especially susceptible, because their facial structure inhibits their ability to pant and cool themselves effectively. Tips to protect your pet include:

  • Know your pet’s heat-related risk — In addition to brachycephalic pets, puppies, kittens, senior pets, overweight pets, and those affected by a medical condition such as heart disease or a metabolic issue are high-risk for heat-related complications.
  • Monitor your pet — Never leave your pet unattended outside, especially on a hot day.
  • Provide shade — When outdoors with your pet, ensure they can access shade. If natural shade isn’t available, set up an umbrella or tent where your pet can escape from the sun.
  • Exercise your pet during the cooler times of day — Avoid strenuous exercise on exceptionally hot days, and walk your pet during early morning and late evening hours when temperatures are typically cooler.

Hank the hound’s hydration hassle

Before Hank’s owner left for the day, he filled Hank’s water bowl with fresh, cool water. Mid-morning, Hank developed a mighty thirst, but he accidentally knocked the bowl over as he lapped up the water. This left Hank without water for more than 12 hours, because his owner didn’t get home until late. By that time, Hank was lethargic and not feeling well. He required intravenous fluid therapy for 24 hours to replace his deficits.

Remaining hydrated is of paramount importance to your pet’s health. Typically, their fluid requirements increase in the summer when temperatures rise. Tips to keep your pet hydrated include:

  • Provide numerous water sources — Provide several water bowls throughout your home to encourage your pet to drink. This also prevents them from going without water if they knock over one bowl.
  • Refresh your pet’s water — Many pets avoid a dirty, stinky water bowl. Clean and refresh your pet’s water bowls daily.
  • Pack a pet hydration kit — On outings with your pet, pack bottled water and a portable water bowl so you can offer your four-legged friend a drink at regular intervals.
  • Invest in a pet water fountain — Some pets, especially cats, are drawn to flowing water and may drink more if they can access a water fountain.

Cooper the corgi’s car conundrum

Cooper loves running errands with his owner, but she forgot she couldn’t take him inside the bank. She reasoned she would be only a few minutes, and parked in the shade and left the window cracked to help keep Cooper cool. However, the line was longer than she anticipated, and then she ran into an old friend who wanted to chat. By the time she got back to Cooper, he was unconscious, so she rushed him to the veterinary clinic. After several days in the hospital, Cooper was able to return home, but his kidneys suffered long-term consequences.

Leaving your pet in the car is never appropriate. Errands often take longer than expected, and parking in the shade and cracking the window isn’t enough to keep temperatures from skyrocketing to dangerous levels. If you can’t take your pet inside an establishment, leave them at home, or run the errand on a different day when your pet isn’t with you.

Contact our Monte Vista Animal Hospital team to schedule your pet’s wellness examination to ensure they are ready for the summer heat.