Heat stroke can kill
NEVER leave a
pet alone in a vehicle, even in the shade. Pets left in cars, or other
unventilated areas, or tied up in the sun, are susceptible to heat stroke.
Since dogs have only a limited ability to sweat, even a short time in a hot
environment can be life-threatening. Temperatures inside a parked car can
rapidly reach dangerous levels even on relatively mild days, and even if the
windows are slightly open. A dog's normal body temperature is 39°C and a
temperature of 41°C can be withstood only for a very short time before
irreparable brain damage or death can occur.
Pets left outdoors on hot
summer days can also be in serious danger. Dogs should only be left outdoors
for short periods, should have sufficient water and a cool, sheltered place
out of direct sun. Walking early morning or evening when it is cooler is
advisable.
Certain types of dogs -
such as northern breeds or short-muzzled dogs like boxers and pugs - can
have a more difficult time in the heat. Older dogs, overweight dogs, puppies
under six months, dogs with certain medical conditions like lung or heart
disease and dogs on certain medications may also be more susceptible to heat
exposure.
Even if you are cautious, there may be a time when you will have to deal
with heatstroke. Familiarize yourself with the signs of heatstroke and what
to do. First aid and medical treatment are essential and can help save your
dog's life. Time is of the essence! 
Increased heart rate
Excessive panting or drooling Listlessness
Confusion or disorientation
Bright red gums
Vomiting or diarrhea
Collapse, seizure or coma
Body temperature higher than 40°C
Move your dog out of the heat immediately. Use a hose or wet towels to start
cooling your dog down. Do not use ice. Offer your dog water. Take your dog
to a veterinarian immediately. Continue cooling him/her with wet towels
during the drive. If you're unable to get to a veterinarian right away
monitor his/her temperature and check for signs of shock. Stop the cooling
process when your dog's temperature reaches 40°C or his/her body temperature
can drop too low and increase the risk of shock. Even if your dog cools down
take him/her to a vet as soon as possible as some medical problems caused by
heatstroke may not show up right away.
Dogs allowed to ride loose in the back of a pick-up truck can easily be
thrown from the back into on-coming traffic. Flying debris can injure eyes
and ears, and the metal flatbed can burn his/her paws. If your pet can't
ride with you in the cab of the truck, leave him/her at home; it's safer for
everyone! Insecticides, herbicides and fertilizers are
common causes of pet poisoning. Avoid walking your pet on lawns that have been
recently sprayed with any of these chemicals; these substances, if ingested, can
cause death. As a precaution, rinse her paws with water after your walk. For
your garden maintenance, use non-toxic, natural alternatives. There are many
natural gardening supplies available at most gardening centres. Numerous plants
are harmful too.
Many seemingly harmless items
can be poisonous to your pet. Make sure you know your veterinarian's procedures
for emergency situations, especially ones that occur after business hours, and
keep phone numbers for your veterinarian,
the ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Center, and a local emergency veterinary service in a convenient location.
Animal toxins - toads,
insects, spiders, snakes and scorpions Blue-green algae in ponds Citronella
candles Cocoa mulch Compost piles, fertilizers Flea products Outdoor plants and
plant bulbs Swimming pool treatment supplies
Fly baits containing methomyl
Slug
and snail baits containing metaldehyde
Fireworks are
terrifying for many pets. They will often run, get lost and end up in animal
shelters. When fireworks displays are planned, leave your pet at home and play
music or the television to help disguise the noise. Close windows and blinds or
curtains.