When it is hot outside temperatures can quickly get intolerable inside your vehicle. To keep your pet safe it is best to leave them at home when you go out to do errands. Even if you think you will be only a few minutes it only takes 10 minutes for temperatures in your vehicle to become dangerous for your pet.
Even if the temperature is a moderate 21 degrees Celcius out it only takes 20 minutes for your vehicle to get to 37 degrees inside.
Parking in the shade or leaving a window cracked open is just not enough to protect your pet.
If your pet appears to be in distress, particularly when it is hot out, watch out for the signs of heat stroke:
Excessive panting
Gasping for air
Vomiting
Foaming around the mouth
Bright red gums (or may turn blue)
Dehydration and unable to drink
Loss of consciousness
This is life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
It is important to act fast and get to the Vet as quickly as possible for treatment. But here are some critical steps to follow while you prepare to go to your Vet:
Move to a cooler area, either a shady grassy area or indoors with a cool fan on.
Use lukewarm/room temperature water (NOT cold water or ice) to cool down the paws, armpits, groin and belly.
Wipe rubbing alcohol or witch hazel onto the inner ear flap and paw pads.
Use a dropper to gently give the pet a little dribble of water. Do not force them to drink as they could aspirate fluid into their lungs.
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Our last post for Pet First Aid Awareness Month on how to make your own First Aid Kit:
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