The summer months are a great time for active cats and dogs to roam outdoors. Blazing sunshine and high temperatures can cause danger of overheating, however. Left untreated, overheating can become life-threatening, leading to dangerous conditions like exhaustion, heat stroke, or cardiac arrhythmia. Here, the veterinary service professionals of Greatwood Veterinary Hospital in Richmond, TX, provide three tips for how to keep your pet from overheating this summer.

1. Always Provide Fresh Water

Ensure that water is readily available for your pet both indoors and outdoors. This should be changed daily and the water bowl cleaned to ensure freshness. If your cat or dog doesn’t like warm water, you can also add an ice cube or two to make it more appealing on extra hot days.

2. Create Sufficient Shade

This is especially important if your pet spends time outside during the day. If they’re fenced in, make sure this area includes trees or overhangs that provide shade. If necessary, install a small structure to keep them out of the sun. There should always be a shady spot, no matter where the sun moves during the day.

3. Avoid Peak Heat Hours

Keep your pet out of the sun during the middle of the day. Try to walk your dog in the evenings or mornings when there’s less heat. If you have air conditioning, move your pet indoors on particularly steamy days.

If your dog or cat does get overheated, it’s important to recognize the signs. Symptoms include open-mouth breathing, fast panting, salivating, vomiting, diarrhea, and bright red or blue gums. If you suspect your pet is overheated, get them to a veterinarian as soon as possible. For assistance in Richmond, TX, look to Greatwood Veterinary Hospital. In addition to emergency veterinary services, they offer a comprehensive array of preventative and general care. Find out more online. For immediate feedback, call the pet clinic directly at (281) 342-7770.