It’s no secret that the past few weeks have been unbearably hot, resulting in an increase of heat stress cases in both cats and dogs. Heat stroke (or Hyperthermia) is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. The normal body temperature for a dog is around 101.5°F (38.6 °C) with a slight variation of 1 degree Fahrenheit. If the body temperature exceeds 105°F (40.5°C), it is considered a true emergency.
How would heat strokes occur in our pets?
- When an animal is left outdoors in hot/humid conditions without adequate shade.\
- When exercised in hot/humid weather.
- When left in a car on a relatively cool day but the internal of a car heats up.
To prevent heatstroke and keep your pets safe, here are some tips we have gathered from vets in our hot and humid climate:
- If at home, turn on the air conditioning in the late morning to afternoon to help cool down the room for your pets. Certain dog breeds are more sensitive to heat.
- Freeze a big block of ice and put it in a larger drinking bowl to allow access to cool water.
- Let them have cool baths where possible.
- On non-bathing days, consider soaking a big towel with cold water and laying over the body of your pets. We see huskies roll on snow during their runs, as it helps them cool down rapidly.
- During the hottest month from May to August, shave your pets (including cats).
- Get a bottle of Ethylchloride spray to use on your pets if necessary. Use the spray when your furbabies start panting excessively while outdoors. Focus on spraying behind the ears, armpits, groin, and under paw pads, but avoid spraying the eyes and mouth.
“I cannot stress enough that prevention is better than getting heatstroke. I urge everyone to be extra cautious during this season,” shares Dr Tham, a vet in Singapore.