High temps and high humidity can take a toll on our pets, especially dogs. That’s according to local veterinarian and owner of Laketown Animal Hospital Dr. Bret Peterson.  He says you may need to change up their walk routine by sticking to short walks or keeping them on grass to avoid burning their paw pads.  Dr. Peterson says dogs cool down mostly by panting and sweating through their paw pads, so it’s important to not let them get overheated.

Laketown Animal Hospital has already had four cases of heatstroke this summer with animals treated at their office. Short-faced breeds like bulldogs and pugs are more susceptible to heatstroke, according to Dr. Peterson.  Signs of heatstroke include panting, an animal that doesn’t want to stand up or move around, and gums that are brick-red. That is a sign of blood moving to the surface in the mouth in an attempt to cool the animal down.  If you see these signs, he advises taking your animal to the vet right away.  They will cool the animal down by rinsing them in cool water, put alcohol on their paw pads, and placing ice packs on their abdomen.

Peterson recommends keeping your pets indoors in a cool environment.  He says you may have to skip walks and limit outdoor time to going to the bathroom.  Walks may also be done early in the morning or late in the evening when its cooler outside.

Can a dog get sunburned?  Dr. Peterson says some breeds can get sunburned. If they have been groomed lately, the hair is short, or if it is a lighter-pigmented dog, there is potential for sunburn.   If a dog has a black nose, he says they are less susceptible to sunburn than a light-nosed dog.  If you are going to use sunscreen, Dr. Peterson advises you to use children’s sunscreen, because it is a little safer.  But, make sure they can’t lick the sunscreen off.   He also recommends animals always have access to fresh water.