Mad dogs (and Englishmen!) go out in the midday sun and the point is very apt as many dogs will be quite happy to run around until they collapse due to heat stroke. Dogs and cats can only sweat through their noses and paws, meaning that they rely on panting in order to lose heat. However, this rate of heat loss is not limitless and so a dog’s body temperature will continue to rise uncontrollably. This can result in collapse, seizures and sadly death, so we as humans need to intervene and make sure they are not given the chance to run in the heat. Walk them in the early morning or late afternoon/evening, ensure there is plenty of fresh water and shade available and, if necessary, hose them down with cool water or put them in the paddling pool!
Rabbits and guinea pigs in garden runs are also very susceptible to heat stroke so ensure the run is in the shade or that they have shady retreats to lie in, remembering that these areas will change throughout the day as the sun moves round.
Some dogs like to lie in the sun and, provided hairless areas are protected, this is allowable. The reason they can do this is because the hair coat and the air it traps insulate the skin from becoming unbearably hot. The important point is that they can move to the shade from time to time and that they are not running around in the heat.
Cats very rarely exert themselves enough to pant unless they have heart or lung disease, or have been in a fight or accident. Most owners will see their cats sensibly lying in the shade of shrubs. If a cat is seen panting, then this should alert the carer to the need for a vet examination to consider whether there is an underlying disease.
Older dogs, usually large breed dogs, may suffer from laryngeal paralysis which means that the larynx falls inwards and limits both the flow of air and the evaporation of water when panting. This means that they can be short of breath and/or overheat. Such dogs are usually intolerant of exercise and have very noisy breathing at the best of times, but become worst when summer months come on. It is a distressing condition but one which your vet will be able to consider an operation for so it is possible to improve the situation. Other respiratory and cardiac diseases can also be unmasked by the heat, so consult your vet if you are concerned your dog is breathless, tiring easily, collapsing or coughing.
Obviously, cars are extremely hot places to be and it is not safe to leave any animal in a hot car, even if the windows are open. Even the most loving owners get caught out so do be careful. Remember that it may be overcast when you leave the car, or it may be in the shade, but this can change as the day progresses so that the car ends up in full sunshine.
Hairless areas of skin such as the nose and ear tips are prone to burning and malignant melanomas can develop here just as they can in humans. Consider putting high factor sun block on these areas in summer months, but do buy a non-allergenic one which is suitable for children.
Fleas are a problem all year round nowadays, but peak in the summer months. Ticks, which can carry a variety of diseases, are most active in Spring and early Autumn. So ensure you have a thorough parasite control program and discuss what this should be with your veterinary practice if you are not sure. Likewise prevention of fly strike is essential in rabbits.
Watch out for dogs on the beach drinking sea water if they are hot, because this can lead to dangerously high salt levels in the body. A few laps will be harmless, but do not let them drink a lot – distract them and always ensure you are carrying a supply of fresh tap water with you.
On a brighter note, most arthritic dogs are better in the hot weather just like their human counterparts. The Summer is a time for enjoyment and a few simple precautions will help to keep your pets safe.
Mark Maltman
Maltman Cosham Veterinary Clinic
Lyons Farm Estate
Lyons Road
Slinfold
W Sussex, RH13 0QP
01403 791011
