Hot alert: 10 golden rules to protect our pets in the summer

Hot alert: 10 golden rules to protect our pets in the summer

Ten simple but precious tips to follow in the summer to protect our pets from heatstroke and more

He is about to end up run over, his mother saves him

While the high summer temperatures can become unbearable for us humans, for many pets they can turn into a death trap. Tragedies occur punctually every summer, caused by excessive heat as well as superficiality: deaths of dogs, left in the car under the scorching sun, cats forgotten on the balcony or veranda, thirsty and exhausted by the heat. The list is really long. To prevent dramatic cases like these from occurring, it is essential to follow a few simple rules that can save the lives of our pets.





Read also: Leaving dogs in the car, even for a few minutes, is dangerous all year round (not just in summer)

Not everyone knows that dogs, cats and birds cannot sweat, so their thermoregulation takes place through an air cooling system during which, thanks to the breath, they lose heat. Furthermore, it is important to know that puppies, older animals, brachycephalic breeds such as bulldogs and Persian cats, obese animals and those suffering from cardiovascular and respiratory diseases are more predisposed to heatstroke.

10 tips to follow to protect the well-being of pets in the summer

But what are the precautions to pay attention to to protect our animals from the heat? The association LNDC (National League for the Defense of the Dog) Animal Protection has compiled a list with ten tips to follow in the summer:

Index

Never leave an animal alone in the car

The temperature inside the cabin can reach fatal levels within minutes, even with the window open. Even a car parked in the shade can be a death trap on particularly hot days

If we see an animal locked up in a car, we check its general condition

If we notice the symptoms of a heatstroke we must act quickly to avoid the death of the animal. Contact law enforcement and a veterinarian on call immediately. If possible, we throw water on the dog through the windows if they are open.

Learn to recognize heat stroke

In case of heat stroke, the animal initially appears uncomfortable, restless and panting, with an increase in respiratory and heart rate. He will later lose alertness and coordination and may stagger or be unable to get up.



Practice first aid maneuvers in case of heat stroke

If symptoms of heat stroke are present, it is necessary to go to the vet. In the meantime, move the animal to a cool, shady place and cool it by applying rags wet with room temperature water to the neck, armpits and groin. However, these measures do not replace the urgent control of a veterinarian because heat stroke can still have very serious consequences.

Read also: Dogs and cats, beware of heatstroke in the summer

Always leave water (and shade) at the disposal of the animals

Animals that live mainly outdoors or in the garden must always have access to fresh, clean water and the possibility of sheltering in a suitably shaded area. As for the animals that live in the apartment, it is advisable to take them for a walk early in the morning and in the evening, avoiding the hottest hours when even the city pavement is hot.

Beware of irritation caused by sand and sea water

Going to the beach is also a lot of fun for dogs but beware of sand and sea water, which can cause skin irritation. Thoroughly rinse our friends with fresh water, paying particular attention between the fingertips. When we play with the dog on the beach we take great care that it does not ingest sand and, in particular, any foreign bodies that can hide in the sand: hooks and lines can cause injuries in the mouth or internal organs, if ingested.

The importance of proper clipping

The hair of animals has a function of protection from the cold but also from heat and sunlight. We believe that clipping is not necessary but, if so, make sure to leave enough length to protect them. It is advisable to use a high protection sunscreen on the white ends of animals, such as the tips of the ears, in case of sun exposure to prevent sunburn and the possibility of developing tumors.



Use pesticides

Throughout the hot season, regularly apply a pesticide suitable for the species and size (some dog products can be lethal to cats). Fleas and ticks can carry many diseases and, in the case of dogs, sand fly bites can transmit leishmaniasis. For the most sensitive subjects, natural products without contraindications based on Neem oil can be chosen.

Beware of insect bites

Insect bites can also affect our friends with their tails and, in some cases, cause allergic and dangerous reactions. If we notice any unusual swelling, redness of the skin or itchiness, contact our veterinarian right away.

Read also: Pappataci: how to recognize them, consequences of the bite, remedies and tricks to treat or prevent the sting

Contact your veterinarian and respect the needs of the animals

In case of doubts it is always advisable to consult your trusted veterinarian, without forgetting that it is always advisable to bring your family animals with you on vacation, but in total respect of their essential needs and listening to their natural needs.

Fonte: LNDC

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