Heat Advisory Tips
As the temperatures keep climbing, we must keep ourselves hydrated, please keep in mind the dogs we walk as well. Including but not limited to: pugs, puggles, french bulldogs, bull dogs, shitzus, etc. A heat stroke can have serious health concerns and in some cases even result in death.
Outdoor Prevention:
Do not run.
Walk in the shade, when ever possible.
Carry a water bottle, travel water bowl or spray bottle.
Offer dog water while outdoors.
Spray water on dog outdoors.
Lower his temperature by wetting him/her thoroughly with cool water.
(for very small dogs, use lukewarm water), then increase air movement around him with a fan.
CAUTION: Using very cold water can actually be counterproductive.
Cooling too quickly and especially allowing his body temperature to become too low can
cause other life-threatening medical conditions.
Indoor Prevention:
Lower blinds/shades.
Keep area well ventilated.
Keep ice in water bowl.
Leave plenty of water out.
Do not leave pets inside car.
Signs of Heat stroke:
- Vigorous panting
- Dark red gums
- Tacky or dry mucus membranes (specifically the gums)
- Lying down and unwilling (or unable) to get up
- Collapse and/or loss of consciousness
- Thick saliva
- Dizziness or disorientation
- Tongue sticking out
What to do if You Suspect Heat Stroke (from About.com Guide).
If you have even the slightest suspicion that your dog is suffering from heat stoke, you must take immediate action.
- First, move your dog out of the heat and away from the sun right away.
- Begin cooling your dog by placing cool, wet rags or washcloths on the body – especially the foot pads and around the head.
- DO NOT use ice or very cold water! Extreme cold can cause the blood vessels to constrict, preventing the body’s core from cooling and actually causing the internal temperature to further rise. In addition, over-cooling can cause hypothermia, introducing a host of new problems. When the body temperature reaches 103°, stop cooling.
- Offer your dog cool water, but do not force water into your dog’s mouth.
Harsh Weather:
In the event of harsh weather where safety may be a concern for both the pet and/or walker, walk will be shortened and remaining time will be spent indoors.
Cooling centers are located through out the tri-state. To find one nearest call 311 or go to http://gis.nyc.gov/oem/cc/
It’s Power Outage Season
- During periods of extremely hot and humid weather, electricity use rises, which can cause power disruptions.
- Don’t set your air conditioner thermostat lower than 78 degrees.
- Use air conditioners only when you’re home, and only in rooms you’re using. If you want to cool your home before you return, set a timer that turns on no more than 30 minutes before you arrive.
- Turn off nonessential appliances.
If you suspect your pet is having a heat stroke take to vet immediately.
Stay cool and have a Pawfect Day!
