TYLER, Texas (KLTV) – As people battle the dangers of summer heat on their health, pet owners also need to keep an eye out for often overlooked health risks for their pets.
Dr. Gary Spence, a veterinarian at Spence and White Veterinary Hospital, wants pet owners to prepare their pets for the summer ahead.
“The very first thing I would do is get your pet in for a pre-summer check-up,” Dr. Spence said.
Dr. Spence said that he treats heat stroke the most because “they can’t sweat like we do.” Signs of heat stroke include drooling, increased respiration and heart rate, weakness, upset stomach and collapse. If you think your pet is experiencing a heat stroke, take them to a veterinarian immediately.
The heat is especially harmful to certain pets, including puppies because they cannot maintain cool, and flat-faced cats or dogs. It is also dangerous for older or obese pets and animals with heart of kidney problems. Dr. Spence said that is because “none of them can compete with the heat.”
When picking out pet food for your animal, Dr. Spence warns against food with a protein content higher than 28%.
“It’s like you staying on a marathon diet all the time. You’re not gonna feel well,” Dr. Spence said.
Pet grooming can also play a role. Dr. Spence said that while you should trim your pet’s hair, you should never shave it.
“Their coat insulates them and helps them keep cool,” he said.
Dr. Spence reminds pet owners to keep their pets hydrated and never leave them alone in a car or near a pool.
Two pets enjoying the warmer weather at an East Texas park are Bella, a loveable Cane Corso, and Remy, a rambunctious Shepherd Pitbull mix. Their owner and Bullard resident, Shelby Perez, shares the importance of knowing your pet to be better able to take care of them.
“You really just gotta learn to connect with your dog, know what they need, support them,” Perez said.
Perez said that as you care for your pet, they will care for you.
“Show them the love they need,” Perez said. “They can really be a good friend.”
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