Animal Rescue Foundation of Rincon, Puerto Rico

Keep Your Pet Cool This Summer
Dr. Michelle E. Pacheco, CPT, VC

As summer approaches, so do high temperatures and high humidity. Both of which can cause heat stroke when your pet is exposed to excessive environmental heat and humidity. This is especially likely here in the tropical climate of Puerto Rico. Dogs and cats can be affected. Although heat stroke may occur in any breed, long-haired breeds, overweight pets, and brachycephalic or "short-headed" breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs, Pekingese, Shih Tzus, etc.) are predisposed.

Heat stroke occurs when the body's mechanisms of dissipating heat cannot get rid of excess heat fast enough. This can occur rapidly in pets since they can only get rid of excess heat by sweating through the pads of their feet and by panting. Overheating can lead to multiple organ failure when your pet's internal body temperature exceeds 106°F. Signs of heat exhaustion that can rapidly lead to heat stroke include excessive panting, excessive salivation, increased internal body temperature, brick red mucous membranes, difficulty breathing, and rapid heart rate.

How can YOU PREVENT heat casualties in you pets?

1.) Watch for Signs of Heat Stroke
Rapid panting, hot skin, twitching muscles, a dazed look. Wrap them in a towel soaked in cool, NOT COLD, water. In severe cases, place them in the bathtub. Place fans blowing towards your pet. Apply rubbing alcohol on foot pads, "arm pits", and groin area. Heat stroke can be FATAL. See your vet as soon possible!

2.) NEVER Leave Your Pet in a Parked Car
Not even if you crack the windows or park in the shade. On a 70°F day, the car temperature can rise above 150°F in minutes. It is extremely dangerous, and the number one casualty is heat stroke.

3.) NEVER Leave Your Pet Tied Up Outside without Shelter.
It is not acceptable to leave your pet tied to a tree and call that a shelter. A shelter means a dog house or covered carport/porch where the pet can get out of the sun during any part of the day. Cats should NEVER be tied up outside.

4.) ALWAYS Provide Plenty of Fresh Water
Again, pets can only sweat through the pads of their feet and by panting. Plenty of fresh water helps to keep pets cool. Pets should NEVER be without water.

5.) Watch for Hot Pavement and Hot Sandy Beaches
Sensitive paws burn easily. FIND A COOL SPOT. For indoor pets, keep the air circulating with a childproof fan or air conditioner. Provide shade for outdoor pets.

6.) Watch the Exercise and Diet
Do not encourage exercise during the hottest part of the day. Exercise your pet early in the morning or late in the evening. Let them eat less. Avoid table scraps. It is more difficult for overweight pets to get rid of excess heat. Overeating leads to overheating.

For further information regarding heat stroke or to make an appointment for your pet, contact the Fort Buchanan Veterinary Treatment Facility at (787) 707-2038 or DSN 740-2038. Wishing you and your pets a safe and cool summer!

Last Updated 06/15/2004