Serious summer heat is here! Many animals—especially those that spend a lot of time outdoors—struggle to keep cool because they can’t process heat as effectively as we can.

Here are some tips for keeping your fur-covered friend safe when the weather is warm:

Never leave your pet in the car on warm, or even sunny, summer days. Even with a window cracked on a 70o day, the interior of your car can reach 100o in as little as 20 minutes.
Hot asphalt will scorch your pet’s paws. Before you head out for a walk, put the back of your palm on the pavement—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pooch.
Do not shave or trim your pet. A pet’s coat is an important part of her natural cooling system, as it protects the skin from the sun.
Always provide shade and plenty of cool, fresh water if your pup spends time in the yard.
If you’re thirsty when you’re walking your dog, your dog is thirsty too, so bring along a bottle for him.
Be aware of how long your pup is outside and consider shorter walks in extremely hot weather.

Symptoms of overheating include excessive panting, increased heart rate and drooling, which can quickly advance to seizures, collapse, vomiting and bloody diarrhea. If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms, call us immediately at (405) 329-0181.