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Unlike humans, pets cannot efficiently sweat to stay cool. Pets get rid of body heat through breathing and panting, and heat can cause circulatory and respiratory systems to work harder.

Overheating can cause immediate heatstroke, irreparable brain damage or even death. If your pet seems listless, has glazed eyes, is panting or his breathing is labored, he may be suffering from heatstroke.

Young, old and sick animals are particularly vulnerable to the heat. If you suspect your pet has heatstroke, make every effort to cool him down quickly. Immerse him in cold water or wrap him in weUnlike humans, pets cannot efficiently sweat to stay cool. Pets get rid of body heat through breathing and panting, and heat can cause circulatory and respiratory systems to work harder. 

Overheating can cause immediate heatstroke, irreparable brain damage or even death. If your pet seems listless, has glazed eyes, is panting or his breathing is labored, he may be suffering from heatstroke.

Young, old and sick animals are particularly vulnerable to the heat. If you suspect your pet has heatstroke, make every effort to cool him down quickly. Immerse him in cold water or wrap him in wet towels. Apply ice packs to his head and neck.  And follow these tips:

Do not leave pets in the car! Even with the windows down, the temperature inside a car can    reach 120º in just a few minutes on an 85º day;

Provide adequate shade and water for outside pets;

Fill a child’s shallow swimming pool so your pet can cool off;

Tie a tarp between trees or on the back porch to provide extra shade;

Summertime exercisers beware! Outdoor activities should be started gradually and limited to the cooler temperatures of early morning and late evening;

Play games indoors with your pet;

Brush out your pet’s winter undercoat to prevent loose hair from causing  tangles and matting. This will help him maintain a lower body temperature. Normal body temperature for dogs and cats is 101.5º to 102.2º F. Your pet  will become very sick if his temperature rises above 103º. Death can occur  near 106º and higher;

Summer coats can be a plus for your pet.  Many coats act as insulation from the heat and protection from sunburn. Check with your veterinarian before clipping that winter “do!”;

Avoid hot places, such as closed garages and other unventilated enclosures;

bulletPets, like people, are most comfortable in temperature-controlled homes.

Thanks to SPCA of Texas for this helpful information!