Texas Heat Safety

Texas Heat Safety

It is heating up here in Texas! No matter if you're new to Texas or a seasoned local, don't forget to keep an eye out for your furry friends' safety during high temperatures.

 

Hot Asphalt

Dirt, grass and AstroTurf can pose a risk for heat exhaustion and burning the pads on dog's paws. Skin damage only takes 60 seconds at high temperatures. For instance, when it is 77°, asphalt can reach 125°. Find some shade and limit outdoor activity on hot days.

 

Hot Car Safety

In a short period of time, your car's temperature can increase by 30 degrees, especially if the windows are closed and the car is in the sun. Keep your pet at home or have someone stay in the car with them (while parked in the shade) if possible. For Tesla owners, Dog Mode can be used to keep dogs cool while in the car and alerts passersby of their safety.

 

Overheated Dogs

Some symptoms indicating your dog may be overheated include excessive panting, excessive drooling, change in gum color or tongue (bright or dark red), increased pulse and heartbeat, excessive thirst and elevated body temperature. If you notice these signs, take your furry friend inside to a cool place with a fan or air conditioning. You can also place cool, wet cloths or towels on their body (neck, armpits, or behind his hind legs) and offer them cold water to drink. For further information, please refer to your veterinarian.

 

Additional Tips

  1. Test the pavement with your back of your hand. If you can't hold it for 7-10 seconds because it is too hot, then it's too hot for your dog's paws.

  2. Go for walks in the early morning and/or evening when it's cool.

  3. Shave with caution as it can mess with the way your pet's body naturally regulates body temperature. Allow a professional groomer to trim for best results.

  4. Be mindful of events where pets wear costumes which can cause them to overheat.

  5. Keep yourself and your pup hydrated! Keep water with you and bring something they can drink out of like the Messy Mutts Collapsible Travel Bowl or Highwave Growler.

 

 

Sources:

8 Signs Your Dog is Overheated (And What You Can Do About It) - The Dog Blog (bil-jac.com)

The Hot Car Safety Guide for Pets (foundanimals.org)

What You Need to Know About Walking Your Dog on Hot Pavement (thesprucepets.com)

Heat Wave Approaching! Should You Shave Your Pet? | ASPCA