5 Tips for Keeping Your Pet Cool from Dr. Rothstein and Dr. Freiman, Our Southington Veterinarians

At Apple Valley Veterinarians, your veterinarian in the Plantsville section of Southington, Hartford County Connecticut, we’re here to keep your pet healthy all year long. From puppy and kitten care to vaccinations to pet emergency care, our team of veterinarians along with a caring support staff is committed to getting and keeping your pet feeling good.

In July and August, it’s not unusual for us to see a spike in pets who are struggling with the heat. Heat exhaustion symptoms can include excessive panting, difficulty breathing, an increased heart rate, drooling, and signs of weakness. In severe cases, there may be seizures and vomiting.

These are the “dog days” of summer and it’s more important than ever to make sure that your pet stays cool. Here are 5 tips for keeping your pet cool from our veterinarians.

1. Keep pets hydrated. It is important that your pet has a fresh, cool supply of clean water. Water can get warm and stale quickly in the summer heat and pets are more likely to drink water that is cool and fresh.
2. Take your pet for a walk in the morning or evening. Make the choice to walk your pet in the early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler. Keep in mind concrete and asphalt can hold the heat of the day and burn pet’s paws. Make efforts to walk your pet on grass or dirt.
3. Leave your pet at home. Some pets get left in cars because the owner intended to stop for only a minute but get sidetracked. This can have disastrous results. Just leave your pet at home and eliminate the risk.
4. Be especially careful if your dog is brachycephalic. Dogs with flat faces like Pugs, Pekingese, Boston Terriers, and Persians do not dissipate heat well by panting. If you own such a dog, make sure they have plenty of shade to stay cool.
5. Brush your pet more often. Brushing your pet often helps them. Besides feeling good, it removes excess hair which can trap heat. That does not mean shaving your pet during the summer which can lead to sunburn.

Veterinary Care Provided by Apple Valley Veterinarians in the Plantsville Section of Southington

If you believe your pet is suffering from heat exhaustion, seek pet emergency care at Apple Valley Veterinarians, your veterinarian in Southington. Of course, our team is here to ensure your pet has the best of care throughout the year. Contact us for veterinary care or a wellness appointment at 860-628-9635. Apple Valley Veterinarians 1218 South Main Street in Plantsville, CT. At Apple Valley Veterinarians, we want to be your pet’s doctor for life.