Summer is here, and North Carolina is feeling the heat.
With the rising temperatures and humidity, Steve Marks, associate dean and director of veterinary medical services at the NC State College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Hospital, does not want your outdoor activity to include an emergency visit to the veterinarian.
“Pets can suffer from heatstroke, dehydration, even sunburn,” says Marks. “It does not take long for a pet to become dangerously overheated.”
While all pets are at risk, says Marks, short-nosed dogs and pets that are older, very young, overweight, have heavy coats and those with pre-existing diseases may need extra care.
Marks advises owners to take immediate action if the pet is panting excessively or has difficulty breathing, has an increased heart and respiratory rate, dry gums, glazed eyes, drools, appears tired, weak or in a stupor.
“Place your pet in the shade or air conditioning and apply cool—not cold—water to reduce the animal’s core body temperature,” Marks says. “Get help from your veterinarian as soon as possible.”
“It only takes a few minutes for a dangerous level of heat to build within the interior of a car,” says Marks. “Dehydration, heatstroke, and even brain damage to the dog or cat can occur.”
For more on these and other pet safety tips go here.
1060 William Moore Drive
Raleigh, NC 27607
How to Keep Pets Healthy and Happy This Summer – North Carolina State University
