“BEAT THE HEAT” with Marco at House with a Heart!!!
Please read this PSA if you would like to learn how to keep your dog safe during this dangerous heat wave (ESPECIALLY if you have a senior pet)! Senior pets are more susceptible to heat stroke and if they experience severe heat stroke, they are likely to develop organ failure and even death.
– Please do your best to keep your pets inside during this extreme heat and to only take them out to exercise during the early mornings and late evenings. If you feel that you are hot, your pet is most likely feeling that heat more intensely.
– Please do not under any circumstances leave your pet in a hot car. It is almost guaranteed that your pet will pass away if they are left in a locked car with no AC and all windows up (even if they are down, it is extremely dangerous). Please try to not leave your pet alone in a vehicle!
– Try the 7 second test to see if it is safe to walk your pet. Place the back of your hand against the asphalt/pavement and hold it there for 7 seconds. If you cannot comfortably keep your hand there then the ground is too hot and you should not walk your dog as their paw pads will burn.
– Provide cool water and proper shade for your pet at all times!! If they are inside for most of the day then that is fine, at least they are safe!! Try to keep them entertained with hiding treats in a towel and folding the towel up and having them find the treats. Or freeze some chicken broth in an ice cube tray and give your pups a nice cold treat!
Lastly… please be on the lookout for signs of heat stroke!!!!!
This could be heavy panting, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, excessive thirst, lethargy, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse drooling, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, seizure and unconsciousness. If you suspect heatstroke, move your pet into the shade or an air-conditioned area. Apply ice packs or cold towels to their head, neck and chest or run cool (not cold) water over their paws. Let them drink small amounts of cool water and take them immediately to a veterinarian