If you think you're hot during these dog days of summer, imagine how your pet feels with a fur coat.

Dogs and cats do not tolerate heat as well as humans do. This is especially true for young, old and overweight cats and dogs. Brachycephalic breeds (dogs and cats with their snouts pushed in such as Pug dogs and Persian cats), are particularly prone to problems during periods of high heat and humidity.
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The veterinarians at Higgins and Wheeling Animal Hospitals remind pet owners to take precautions with their animals during periods of intense heat.
"Heatstroke is a very serious problem for pets and can quickly lead to kidney failure, brain damage, and in severe cases, death," said Dr. June LaFave, Medical Director of Chicago Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Center. "Fortunately, pet owners can often prevent their pets from getting heatstroke."
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About heatstroke:
Dogs and cats primarily cool themselves through panting. When the air temperature is high, panting becomes ineffective. The normal body temperature for dogs and cats is 100-102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (taken rectally). As the body temperature rises, the animal's primary organs (heart, kidneys, liver, etc.) may begin to shut down. The result can be kidney failure, brain damage, and in severe cases, death.

Signs of heatstroke:
Dogs and cats show similar signs of heatstroke. Symptoms of heatstroke include:
• Heavy panting
• Rapid heartbeat
• Vomiting (possibly with blood)
• Intense grooming (especially for cats)
• Disorientation
• Listlessness
• Restlessness

Preventing heatstroke:
Fortunately, heat stroke in pets can often be prevented: Pet owners should take the following steps:
• Never leave a pet in an unattended vehicle where temperatures can quickly rise to deadly levels.
• Make certain your pet has access to fresh, clean water at all times.
• Keep your pet primarily indoors, in an air-conditioned environment.
• Limit exercise. Don't run your pet or otherwise exercise them heavily.
• If your dog is in the yard, help keep in cool with a children's wading pool in the shade.

Pet owners who think their pet may be suffering from heatstroke should immediately move the animal to a cool place and begin cooling the pet with a cool damp towel, ice packs, and cool (not cold) water. They should then seek veterinary medical attention. Veterinarians can help cool your pet with intravenous fluids and other medical resources.
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