SPOKANE, Wash., Aug. 5, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- With summer temperatures setting record highs across the U.S., Spokane veterinarian Charles Lohr is working to keep pets safe in the summer heat. Dr. Lohr issued a new set of safety guidelines for pet owners. These guidelines include avoiding midday exercise with pets, never leaving pets in a parked car, and ensuring outdoor pets have access to shade and plenty of water. Dr. Lohr is also raising awareness about the signs of heatstroke. Symptoms include heavy panting, glazed eyes, erratic pulse, frothing at the mouth, and dark red gums. In the event of heat stroke, pet owners should seek immediate care from an emergency veterinary clinic.
A-1 Animal Care Veterinary Services in Spokane, WA is urging pet owners to be vigilant about the dangers of summer heat. According to veterinarian Dr. Charles Lohr, with temperatures hitting the 90's in Spokane, pets are at increased risk for overheating, dehydration and heat stroke.
"A sudden summer heat wave can leave many pet owners unprepared to cope with these higher temperatures," said Dr. Lohr. "When temperatures hit the 90's, it is important to alter your pet's daily routine to reduce the risk for heat stroke. Pet should not be exercised during the midday heat. Outdoor pets need constant access to water and shade."
Dr. Lohr recommends that pet owners exercise their pets during the early morning and evening hours to avoid overheating. Pets that are kept outside should always have access to shaded covering away from the midday heat. Indoor pets should be kept in air-conditioned areas or have access to a fan.
The veterinarian is also reminding pet owners to never leave their pets inside a locked car. Temperatures rise quickly, putting pets at risk for heat stroke. A sunny day could cause car temperatures to rise as much as 40 degrees in one hour.
"On a sunny, 85-degree day, the temperature inside a parked car can reach 102 degrees in only 10 minutes," said Dr. Lohr. "After 30 minutes, the temperatures can exceed 120 degrees. Any temperature over 110 is extremely dangerous for pets. Even a short errand can turn deadly in just minutes."
Part of the reason that pets are so susceptible to heat stroke is that their cooling system is inadequate for hot temperatures. "While humans can sweat to cool off, pets can only pant," said Dr. Lohr. "Heat can also be released through the pads on their feet. However, this is inefficient in comparison to humans sweating. For this reason, it's possible for pet owners to be comfortable when pets are suffering from the heat."
Short-nosed breeds, young pets, senior pets and those with cardiovascular problems are especially susceptible to overheating. Pets suffering from heat stroke require urgent care from an emergency veterinary clinic.
Dr. Lohr and A-1 Animal Care Veterinary Services provides pain management for dogs, pet senior wellness, and pet dermatology services.