My scope of experience includes employment as a Zoo Keeper, an Animal Services Officer, Veterinary Technician and a professional pet sitter with an Associate of Science degree in Animal Science.
Well… the heat is upon us and we need to watch our canine friends closely to avoid heat related illness. Here are some recommendations that will help you keep your friends safe.
- In the hottest part of the day 9:00 AM-5:00 PM limit your canine companion’s activity in the direct sun to twenty minutes
- Spray your companion down with cool water before going out
- Avoid pavement
- Seek frequent shade
- Have water available at all times.
- If your companion has rapid breathing that does not subside or/and has excessive salivation bring them indoors immediately continue to monitor and apply cool water (not cold) if there is no change transport to your veterinarian .
- Ask your veterinarian to show you how to monitor capillary refill.
- I’ve found that an easy way to carry water with me when I walk dogs is using a camelbak water container.
- Because you have left your canine companion out in the heat for extended periods before does not mean it is safe.
If you have a dog door that allows your canine companion to move freely from the house to the yard be sure to provide shade and plenty of water. It would be best to have an automatic waterer outside that can be secured to the ground or wall so that your companion never runs out of water and the water is always cool and clean.
If you have any suggestions as to how the process can be improved I’m all ears. Please let me know your suggestions.