Protect your pet from heat stroke in Lahore summers
Photo: Gennady Zakharin on Unsplash
Dogs and cats cannot cool down by sweating the way we do. Flat-faced breeds such as bulldogs and pugs, thick-coated breeds, older pets and overweight pets are at the highest risk.
Signs of heat stroke
- Heavy, noisy panting and thick drool
- Bright red gums
- Weakness, stumbling or vomiting
- Collapse
What to do first
- Move your pet into shade or a cool room.
- Wet the body with cool, not icy, water and use a fan.
- Offer small sips of water if your pet is alert. Never force water.
- Call the clinic and come in, even if your pet seems to recover.
Prevention
Walk only in the early morning or after sunset, and test the road with your hand before you walk. Keep fresh water and shade available all day, and never leave a pet in a parked car.