Ask An OC Expert: How To Keep Your Pet Cool This Summer
Summer is around the corner and with the record breaking heat that has been hitting the southern California area it is important to take precautions to stay cool, especially with your pets. Local veterinary neurologist, Alireza A. Gorgi, DVM, Dip. ACVIM, in collaboration with emergency and critical care veterinarian, Virginia Marie Frauenthal, provide their top tips to keep your pets from overheating this summer season.
Alireza A. Gorgi, DVM, DACVIM/Neurology
Board Certified Veterinary Neurologist
VCA All-Care Animal Referral Center
18440 Amistad St., Suite E
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 963-0909
www.vcaspecialtyvets.com
Among an elite group of 250 veterinarians that have achieved the diplomate status in veterinary neurology, Dr. Gorgi has practiced his specialty care in southern California since 2008. He completed his internship at The University of Georgia and a three-year veterinary neurology/neurosurgery residency at The Ohio State University and University of Missouri. His passion for his work is evident in his level of activity and multiple research projects in the field. On a local, national and international level he has lectured on various neurological topics.
Tip 1: Avoid Exercise Or Off-Leash Activity During The Middle Of The Day
Dogs are most likely to suffer from heat stroke when the ambient temperature outside is hotter, usually between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. You should avoid taking your dog for a long walk or run during this time, as well as avoid excessive off-leash activity. Stick to walks and runs closer to dusk and dawn, when the weather is cooler. Please be aware of heightened coyote activity during these times, however, and keep your pet on a leash.
Tip 2: Always Allow Dogs To Set Their Own Pace During Exercise
Overexertion is a leading cause of heatstroke. No matter what the time of day is, do not push your dog during walks or runs. If they decide to lie down in a shady spot, take heed and give them time to recover. Dogs will also commonly visit the hospital for heatstroke after excessive ball play with their owners. Be aware that the only mechanism dogs have to lose heat is through panting, and it takes time to get rid of excess heat through this method.
Tip 3: Never Leave Your Pet In The Car Unsupervised
Although many of us love to have our pets with us at all times, please do not bring your pet in the car to run simple daytime errands. The interior temperature of an automobile can increase to triple digits in just three to five minutes in the sun, even with the windows partially down. If you are traveling to a location where your pet cannot come inside, it is safest that they remain at home.
Related: Best Dog Runs In OC
Tip 4: Certain Types Of Dog Are Predisposed To Heatstroke
Older dogs cannot handle excessive exercise and high environmental temperatures and even their younger counterparts. Dogs with darker colored hair are also predisposed to heatstroke as their coat readily absorbs heat. If your dog is overweight, their ability to pant and release heat may be compromised, also making them more likely to overheat. Finally, brachycephalic breeds including but not limited to Bulldogs, Boxers, Pugs and French Bulldogs are more likely to develop heatstroke because of their pushed in faces.
Tip 5: Heatstroke Is More Likely To Occur In The Late Spring And Early Summer
When it first gets hot, dogs haven't had time to get used to the temperature change. It actually takes animals six weeks to fully acclimatize to higher temperatures. It is therefore important to be especially cautious with your pet as the days grow longer. That said, in Southern California, temperatures can soar even in the winter, so check the weather report before making outdoor daytime plans with your pet.
