Vet Notes : dogs Keep Your Pets Safe in the Summer Heat This
summer is bringing record heat to many parts of the US. It is
easy for us to realize when we are too hot, but sometimes it can
be difficult to tell if our pets are too hot. Remember that your
pets do not sweat and they are wearing a fur coat. Panting is
the only way that a dog or cat can cool down in hot weather. If
you live somewhere that has humidity combined with the heat,
your pet will have a tougher time cooling down. Panting works to
cool your pet by evaporating the moisture from the surface of
the tongue. When the humidity is high, evaporation does not work
as well so your pet will not be able to cool down. If you run
with your dog, make sure to take it easy in the hot weather.
Running on pavement can be hard on your dog's feet and even
worse when the temperatures are high. If the temperatures are ok
for running with your dog, consider trail running to help
protect your pet's feet from burning. If your pet is outside
during the day, make sure