Summer Heat
Taking your dog with you is often an enjoyable experience for both you and your
pet. But even on mild sunny days, the tempuratures in your car can reach as high
as 120 degrees. We have the following recomendations for you and your pet:
- Open windows and vents as wide as possible without providing an escape route; or, put your pet in a well ventilated crate inside the car and open the windows fully.
- Check the car every 10 minutes.
- If your pet is panting, has a staring or anxious expression, does not obey commands, has warm dry skin and high fever, has a rapid heartbeat, or is vomiting, lower the body temperature quickly with cool water, either by immersion or by spraying thoroughly with a garden hose. Call your veterinarian immediately.
- If your pet lives outdoors, make sure there is adequate shelter for protection from the midday sun and heat. Outdoor kennels should be well ventilated and in a shaded area. There should always be some shade for the pet to get out of the sun.
- Make sure there is plenty of fresh drinking water available to your pet. The bowl should be placed in a shaded area where it can not be heated by the sun.
- Exercise is important, but overexertion during hot weather commonly causes heat stress. Avoid excessive exercise during hot days.
- Keep your pet well groomed. Long hair and hair mats may need to be clipped to keep the animal cool.
Heat stroke can be a very serious condition. If you pet's tempurature gets too high for a long enough time, your pet may suffer permament brain damage or even death.
Phone: (510) 841 - 4412 Fax: (510) 841 - 3019 email: staff AT uvhberkeley DOT com
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