Here's how you can help your pets beat the intense heat
As summer temperatures soar, it's crucial to remember that our furry friends are vulnerable to the intense heat.
Pets, such as dogs and cats, are at risk of heat stress since they have limited ability to regulate their body temperature. They rely on panting and vasodilation (widening of arteries and large blood vessels) to cool down when exposed to high temperatures.
When the heat becomes excessive, their natural cooling mechanisms may not be sufficient, leading to heat stress or even heat stroke.
PhilSTAR L!fe sat down with Dr. Racky Valesquez, a 17-year veterinarian and Dr. Shiba vet ambassador, about some essential information and tips to help you keep your pets safe and comfortable during the hottest months of the year.
General tips to make your pets comfortable during the intense heat
- Make sure your dog has water all the time. Always have a bowl of water for the dogs to drink, as this will help them lower their temperature, especially during the midday.
"Ang problema kasi sa mga dogs, 'di sila nagswe-sweat. So ang pagregulate ng kanilang temperature is through panting, so kapag dehydrated ang dog, mabilis mag-iinit ang katawan. The main thing is always to hydrate your dog," he told L!fe.
He added that a terra-coated bowl is recommended for a pet's drinking bowl as this stores cooler water much longer. However, in this kind of temperature, the vet highly suggested that fur parents should put some ice blocks on their water.
If you're leaving your fur baby home, make sure there's clean, accessible water for them, especially for more independent pets like cats.
- Have your dog shaved for a summer cut. Valesquez noted that fur parents are not required to do it with a groomer; as long as they can cut the fur of their pets the thinnest as possible, it's okay. "Kapag ki-nut mo 'yan nang manipis, mas 'di sila nag-aaccumulate ng heat," he said.
- Make sure your dog has a walking schedule early in the morning and late at night.
- Have your pet regularly bathe at least twice a week to regulate their body temperature, especially the parts of the body such as the paws, armpit, and tummy. The best time to do it is from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. when it's not yet too hot out.
- Adding water to the food is one way of increasing moisture. A dog can stay hydrated as long as its food has enough moisture. "Kung sobrang init, I would suggest na i-wet 'yung food para kahit papano 'yung food mismo may tubig papasok."
- Ensure proper ventilation. Open the windows or turn on an air conditioner or fan.
On heat stroke
The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) reminded pet owners on April 23 that their animals may experience paw blisters and heat stroke due to the extensive heat reaching danger levels.
For furparents, Dr. Valesquez reminded some of the signs and symptoms that dogs and cats are experiencing heat stroke, such as nonstop panting, Cyanosis, or the bluish color of tongue and gums, unresponsive behavior, weakness, and hypersalivation.
Moreover, the Taguig-based veterinarian, enumerated ways to conduct first aid treatment when our pets experience heat stroke.
- Wrap the dog with a towel soaked in cold water.
- Spray cold water on armpits, chest, and paws.
- Try to make them swallow some cold water (if they are still responsive and have a swallowing reflex).
- Bring inside an airconditioned room or, if not possible, even just an electric fan. If it happens outside, bring it under a tree or where there's shade and good ventilation, at least away from direct sunlight.
- Bring to a nearby vet clinic for IV infusion and treatment.
When asked about things to avoid when dealing with dogs or cats experiencing heat stroke, Dr. Valesquez said, "Avoid falls. Make sure they are not in an area where they can hurt themselves in case they collapse. "If you don't know the dog, be careful with their mouths, as they might have a tendency to bite when stressed."
If you encounter stray dogs and cats in the street, there are small acts you can do like giving them water.
"You can provide water for them, and if budget permits, provide shelter where they can stay and cool down—preferably in a place with many trees."