5 Ways to Protect Your Pet from Heatstroke

During the height of summer, weather conditions can become more than miserable for your furry pal—they can be downright dangerous. Protect your pet from the threat of heatstroke with the following tips.

#1: Monitor the weather

By keeping a close eye on the temperature and humidity, you can time your pet’s outdoor excursions to the coolest part of the day. In general, the best time to exercise is early in the morning before the sun and humidity have had a chance to rise. Throughout the rest of the day, stick to short bathroom breaks and save energetic activities for indoors.

#2: Encourage your pet to drink

Some pets become so distracted by and engaged in outdoor adventures, they forget to drink as much as they should. Encourage your pet to increase their water intake by tossing ice cubes in their water bowl, purchasing a pet drinking fountain, or simply refreshing their water frequently with cool, clean liquid.

#3: Seek the shade

Whether you’re relaxing outside with your pet or taking a stroll around the block, seek the shade to prevent overheating and burnt paws. Although your pet’s paw pads may seem impervious to harm, they are sensitive and can blister easily from walking on scorching hot pavement.

#4: Use extra care for pets with certain conditions

Certain health issues or characteristics can increase your pet’s risk of heatstroke. If your furry pal falls into any of the following categories, take extra precautions to prevent overheating:

Overweight or obese
Very young or very old
Dark- or thick-furred
Cardiac disease
Respiratory disorders
Endocrine imbalances

#5: Know the warning signs of impending heatstroke

To prevent heat stress or heat exhaustion from developing into full-blown heatstroke, which can cause organ failure, learn what warning signs to watch for in your pet. Early signs that indicate your pet is overheating include: