July 1, 2007 HOT WEATHER SAFETY TIPS FOR DOGS AND CATS (Hinsdale, IL –July 1, 2007)… Known as the “Dog Days of Summer”, the months of July, August, and September are bound to be filled with plenty of hot, humid and hazy days. Pet owners should be aware that dogs and cats can suffer from the same heat-related problems that humans do – over heating, dehydration and even sunburn – when the mercury rises. The Chicago Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) offers some simple precautions that pet owners can take to protect their companion animals from the elements all summer long. When “out and about” with your pet, always bring plenty of cold water, along with a portable bowl (some can be clipped right on to the leash). This way, you can make certain he/she has a cool drink and remains properly hydrated. Never leave your pet alone in a vehicle. Even with the windows open, or located in the shade, a parked car, truck or van can quickly become a furnace on a hot day. Dogs and cats don’t sweat like humans, and sometimes they just can’t pant fast enough to cool down. Overheating can quickly lead to death. Don’t force your animal to exercise after a meal in hot, humid weather. Try to exercise him/her in the early morning or later in the evening when the temperatures are cooler, and keep long walks to a minimum. Your pet may not always know when to say “when”. It is up to you to pay attention. Never leave your dog standing on hot asphalt for long periods of time as his/her body can heat up quickly, and sensitive paw pads may burn. Do not take your animal to the beach unless shade and plenty of fresh drinking water is available. Also, be certain to rinse him/her off after swimming in salt water to prevent any skin irritation. For animals that stay outside, be sure to provide plenty of shade as well as a well-constructed doghouse. Bring your animal inside during the hottest part of the day and supply plenty of cool water. It is best that cats remain indoors on extremely hot days. Old and overweight animals require extra attention in hot weather. Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dogs such as bulldogs, pugs, some terriers and shih tzus, as well as animals with heart or lung diseases should be kept in air-conditioned or cool rooms as much as possible. Keep your animal well-groomed to prevent summer skin irritations. Shaving a heavy-coated dog’s hair to a one-inch length will help prevent overheating and related skill problems. However, be careful not to shave the hair all the way down to the skin, as this will remove protection from the sun and can expose your pet to sunburn. Watch out for any changes in skin color: pets can get skin cancer too. Cats should be brushed more often in the summer to help thin-out any excess fur. The Chicago Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) is an association of more than 1000 veterinarians and 4000 support staff who lovingly assist Chicago area pets and their families. Since 1896, the CVMA has been dedicated to the health and well-being of animals; providing its members with nationally recognized continuing education and professional services; and the community at large with public awareness and educational programming regarding the importance of appropriate pet care.