Summer is one of the most beautiful seasons, because it allows us to be outdoors, to go to the beach and enjoy the sun. But sometimes excessive heat, especially if it is unexpected, can cause serious damage to our furry friends. Just like us, they suffer from heat and it can even be more difficult to understand, since unlike us humans, they do not sweat and therefore cannot lower their body temperature.
As for us, to defend ourselves from the heat, we can drink more water, avoid going out during the hottest hours and use sunscreen to protect ourselves from the sun.
But how can we protect our animals from the heat?
Here are some simple but important rules:
1 Protect them from heat stroke : when we take the dog for a walk, avoid the hottest hours, especially for long-haired dogs. The ideal time would be early in the morning or in the evening.
2 Do not force them too much: when it is very hot it is good not to tire them too much through play or walks. Watch out for signs such as shortness of breath, wide-open mouth and excessive salivation, which can be signs of fatigue.
3 Protect them from the heat : When we notice that the dog is hot, we can refresh him with a damp cloth or by often wetting his face, legs and back, that is the parts most exposed to the sun’s rays. They are simple tricks, but that our furry dog will appreciate.
4 Never frozen water : in the heat we often think that food and fresh water give relief, but we must be careful that it is never particularly frozen water. The water must always be at room temperature, the same goes if we decide to wet it.
As for cats , however, everything is easier. Since we know that our cats are very skilled in looking for and finding places where not to be disturbed, they will also be very skilled in looking for the coolest places in the house. In any case, to prevent even the coolest parts of the house from heating up, close the windows and shutters during the hottest hours . But if they still suffer from heat, the main symptoms of heatstroke to recognize are: wheezing, dark gums, excessive salivation, weakness, dizziness, tremors and in some cases even vomiting and diarrhea.
In these cases, it is good to cool the cat with a damp, cool cloth and give him water to drink.
These are simple tricks that can make our furry friend feel better during the summer months, so that he can enjoy the most beautiful season as we do!
