Summer has barely begun, and temperatures are already soaring all over the country, including at the Family Pet Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. This season, Family Pet Center would like to remind you to be vigilant about heatstroke. Pets are especially prone to heatstroke when their owners leave them in parked cars, or forget about their limited stamina outside in the sun. 

The following are common signs of heatstroke in animals:

• Excessive thirst and/or profuse salivation
• A deep red or purple tongue (dehydration)
• Labored breathing and heavy panting
• Accelerated heartbeat
• Lethargy, dizziness, glazed eyes
• Seizure or unconsciousness

Should your pet exhibit any of these signs, get her out of the heat immediately and provide cool drinking water. Pour water over her back, or apply wet towels or ice packs, but not too cold. Take her to a veterinarian to ensure she's recovering well.

Obviously, the best way to treat heatstroke is to prevent it. When temperatures run high, avoid the following high-risk activities:

• Never, ever leave your pet in a parked car, even if you think there's enough ventilation. In-car temperatures escalate very quickly, and the heat can be lethal for both pets and human infants. Don't do it.
• Don't overwork your short-snouted friends in the summer. Animals with short snouts, such as Persian cats or pugs, have a particularly hard time in the heat because their breath doesn't have enough time to cool down. That's right: longer noses make it easier for certain animals (including humans) to tolerate heat, as the extra nasal space cools air faster. Limit your time outside—no matter what size your noses are—and always bring extra water on walks.

For more advice on how to care for your pet, check out Family Pet Center online, or call (513) 231-7387. Family Pet Center provides full-service pet care, including dog obedience school, dog day care and boarding, grooming, pet supplies, and an on-site veterinarian every Saturday.