As the temperature rises, so do the risks for your pet.
That's the message from the BC SPCA as it ramps up efforts to raise awareness about the hazards and consequences - some potentially fatal - when mixing hot summer weather and animals.
Many people like to take their dogs with them to the beach or on errands but it's risky to take your canine friend in your vehicle. The temperature inside a parked car at this time of year, even one that's in the shade, can climb well above 38 C and dogs can withstand high temperatures for only a short time before suffering irreparable brain damage or even death.
"Dogs can die after just ten minutes in a hot car," Craig Naherniak, BC SPCA's humane education general manager, said in a press release. "It's much kinder and far safer to leave your friend in a cool environment."
Naherniak recommends the following tips for keeping your dog safe:
Don't leave your pet in the car. Even a car parked in the shade can pose a threat to your pet.
Use caution when running, cycling or inline skating with your pet as these activities pose serious risks of heat stroke, accidents and anxiety experienced by the animal. If you run or cycle with your dog, choose cooler times of day such as early morning or late evening and take plenty of breaks. Also, run on soft trails rather than on cement and asphalt, which can burn your pet's foot pads.
Always take water and a container from which your dog can drink.
Have the number of a vet on hand so you are prepared in case of an emergency.
To avoid potential disaster, know the signs of heat stroke in pets: exaggerated panting (or the sudden stopping of panting), rapid or erratic pulse, salivation, weakness and muscle tremors, lack of co-ordination, convulsions or vomiting and collapse.
If your dog shows symptoms of heat stroke, immediately move the animal to a cool, shady place; then wet the dog with cool water, including the head and feet, and fan vigourously to promote evaporation. Do not apply ice as this constricts blood flow, which will inhibit cooling. Allow the dog to drink some cool water and get it to the vet immediately.
Besides dogs and cats, it's important to take good care of your small animals such as guinea pigs, rabbits and rats.
Never put their cages near windows and provide shelter and shade if they are enjoying outdoor time.
On the hottest days, placing dishes of ice in enclosures will assist in lower temperatures.
