News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Hot weather can pose a threat to animals, and animal experts say it’s important to keep their temperature in check.
Copeland Veterinary Animal Hospital Vet Assistant Brooke Allen said that the number one thing people can do is provide access to fresh, clean, and cool water, but there are other ways to keep them cool as well.
“You can always make sure your dog’s got a really shady spot, make sure they’re not in direct sunlight,” Allen said. “Don’t keep them in the car at all, even for five minutes while you run into the store. Those degrees in the car can definitely rise really quickly.”
New tools like cooling pads are also effective in maintaining a pet’s normal temperature, as long as there is continuous upkeep.
Allen said that if your pet begins to pant excessively or pace around, that means they’re overheating. When a pet becomes lethargic, it’s time to take them to the vet.
“Getting them that emergency right away,” Allen said. “On the way there, try and cool their paws off. Never dunk them in water, nothing like that, because that can actually send them into shock. Make sure you’re trying to get them cool but slowly, and take them to your nearest veterinarian.”
Allen said it’s also important to pay attention to the temperature of the pavement. When the pavement becomes too hot, it can scald the bottom of your pets’ paws leaving them raw.
