As the temperatures continue to rise this summer, you know the value of a cold beverage and an efficient air conditioner. Therefore, when your pet starts panting, you want to do everything in your power to bring them the same relief. While they might seem tough, even the strongest dogs and cats are vulnerable to heat strokes. Luckily, you can use the following tips to prevent an emergency trip to the animal hospital.

3 Ways to Prevent Your Pet From Experiencing a Heat Stroke

1. Don’t Leave Them in the Car

Even if you’re only running into the store for a quick errand, you should never leave your pet in the car. After just a few minutes, heat will accumulate inside the vehicle, and your pet will find it hard to breathe. To prevent a heat stroke, leave your pet in your cool air-conditioned house unless you can take them with you wherever you go.

2. Avoid Afternoon Exercise

The hottest time of the day is usually between 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., which is when the sun is highest in the sky. Taking your pet for a quick walk or run around the neighborhood at this time could leave them overheated and dehydrated, raising the risk of a heat stroke.

As the sun’s rays heat the road and sidewalk, an outing could also burn the skin on your pet’s paws. Avoid the pain and risk by taking your dog for a walk early in the morning or around sunset when the air and pavement have cooled down.

3. Be Mindful of Time Outside

When you’re relaxing on the patio or front porch, you might feel like bringing your pet out to enjoy the summer weather with you. However, with a body covered in fur, your dog or cat will get tired of the heat faster than you. Always bring a bowl of cool water outside and install a pet door so that they can go inside when it’s hot. Most animals will know when they’re getting too hot and need a break, but if you’re distracted or asleep, they’ll need a way to get back into the air conditioning.

If your pet experiences heavy panting and drooling, diarrhea, vomiting, or a seizure after being out in the sun, head to Makai Pet Hospital in Kailua, HI, for immediate heat stroke treatment. For over 30 years, this local animal hospital has provided Oahu residents with quality pet services, such as dentistry, internal medicine, dermatology, surgery, and chemotherapy. Pet owners can also pickup supplies at the animal hospital, including leashes, toys, toothbrushes, snacks, and shampoos. Learn more about their product inventory online, or call the animal hospital at (808) 262-9621 to schedule an appointment.