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The hot and humid summer days keep coming, and our furry family members are feeling the heat! Although we want to keep our pets happy and healthy with daily exercise and exposure to the outdoors, it’s important to keep in mind the serious threats of heat and humidity.
Heat stress and heat stroke are two common conditions effecting pets during the summer months. We’ve put together some helpful information on how to help your pets stay safe and healthy this summer.
Your Pet Might Be At a Higher Risk in the Sun and Heat
Certain breeds and factors put some pets at higher risks in heat conditions. Breeds with short noses and flat faces, also known as brachycepalic dog breeds, do not handle heat very well. Breeds in this category include (but are not limited to) Bulldogs, Pugs, Chihuahuas, Boxers, Shih Tzus, Pekingese, and other small toy breeds. Dogs depend on panting to help them cool down, and the facial structures in these breeds creates airway issues that make it more difficult for them to take in enough air to cool their bodies.
Our extra furry breeds are also more susceptible to develop heat-related conditions. Breeds such as Akiktas have extra fur to help withstand the cold conditions. But it makes it more difficult for them to keep cool. It’s important to make sure that their heat exposure is limited, even when they want to stay outside.
Other pet factors to keep in mind:
Tips to Beat the Summer Heat
Regardless of your pet’s breed, parents should always monitor all sun and heat exposure.
Signs to Look Out For:
If you see that your dog is experiencing any of the signs of heat stress or heat stoke, make sure to immediately bring them into cooler temperatures and provide water. It’s important to consult your veterinarian as heat strokes are life threatening conditions.
PetFirst Pet Insurance helps cover costs of veterinarian visits and treatments involving heat-related conditions. Insuring your pet in its early years allows you the peace of mind that your furry family member with be covered should any incident or illness occur. It’s not too late to be prepared for the summer heat, get a quote today.