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AUSTIN, TX – With summer 2022 set to be the hottest summer ever, vets from pet care flourishveterinary healthcare network is the first of its kind in more than 350 locations across the United States, warns pet owners about the dangers associated with high temperatures during the summer months and how to prevent heat-related diseases and disasters.
according to National Oceanic and Atmospheric AdministrationThe summer of 2021 marks neck and neck with the summer of the Dust Bowl in the 1930s and its hottest ever, leaving many veterinary experts concerned about heat-related illnesses and tragedies among pets in 2022.
“While warm weather motivates us to get outside and be more active with our pets, it could be a disaster waiting to happen for pet owners who are unaware of the warning signs of heat-related illness,” said Anthony Coronado, national director of emergency services for Thrive. DVM. “With most of the country experiencing higher temperatures than in previous years, those who have pets should be aware of the harmful – and sometimes fatal – effects that heat can have on our furry friends.”
Every dog or cat, regardless of physique, age, size or breed, can suffer from heat-related illness or death. As temperatures rise, Thrive veterinary providers are urging pet owners to follow these safety guidelines for their pets:
- Do not leave pets in a heated vehicle or similar enclosed space.
- Always allow your pet access to shade and fresh drinking water.
- When going out for a walk, beware of prolonged exposure to hot surfaces that can damage your pet’s claws or skin, such as concrete and asphalt.
- Do not drive with your pet in a truck bed or with its head outside a window.
- Know your pet’s limits when engaging in prolonged outdoor physical activity.
- Be sure to protect your pet from fleas, ticks, mosquitoes and the most common parasites during the summer months.
The normal body temperatures of dogs range from 100 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, while the body temperature of cats ranges between 99.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Pet owners should watch for signs of heat stroke which include but are not limited to:
- vomiting
- confusion
- collapse
- Excessive panting and/or shortness of breath/delayed walking
- extreme thirst
- Weakness and/or fatigue
- thick saliva
- red or pale gums
If your pet shows any of these signs, try to help lower his body temperature by moving him to a cooler environment, providing fresh drinking water, and seeking emergency veterinary care right away. If professional veterinary care is not immediately available, use fans and air conditioners, apply cool to tepid, but not cold to icy, and wet towels to the pet. Do not place the pet in an ice trough, as cooling too quickly can cause the blood vessels in the animal’s body to constrict and reduce blood flow, making it difficult for the animal to cool down and causing further complications that will greatly hinder recovery.
It is important to remember that even if pets overheat, they will sometimes still make an effort to please their owners. Even if your pet appears to have recovered, continue to seek veterinary care as soon as possible, as the severe consequences heatstroke can have on pets may not be obvious.
For questions or concerns about your pet or for other safety tips, please contact your nearest hospital within the Thrive Pet Healthcare network. For a list of all the sites, visit www.thrivepetcare.com/all-locations.
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About Thrive Pet Healthcare
Thrive Pet Healthcare is a leading veterinary service network that uniquely provides a continuum of care for pet families and services for veterinary hospitals. With an industry-first membership program and more than 350 acute, primary, and specialist providers, Thrive Pet Healthcare offers personalized care accessible through every stage of a pet’s life and health. The veterinarian-founded organization provides key benefits to practice staff while upgrading privately owned veterinary hospitals through innovative services and technology solutions. By focusing on the needs and aspirations of veterinary care providers, Thrive Pet Healthcare supports the well-being of the industry and raises the national standard of veterinary excellence. To learn more about Thrive Pet Healthcare, please visit www.thrivepetcare.com
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