July 1st, 2023

​Summer can be a fun time for pet owners and their animals to get outside and play, but the extreme heat can be very hazardous to pets.

Every year, companion animals suffer and die when their owners leave them in a parked car while they run errands. Temperatures inside cars can quickly rise 20 to 40 degrees higher than the outside temperature, and animals can die from heatstroke in just 15 minutes.

Here are a few tips to keep pets safe, healthy and happy during the hot summer season. ​NEVER leave pets in hot cars. Leaving pets in hot vehicles can cause severe dehydration and even death within minutes. Instead, keep your pets at home where they are safe and comfortable. Keeps pets indoors during extreme heat. High temperatures can be dangerous, particularly to brachycephalic (short-nosed) dog breeds, such as pugs, boxers and bull dogs.

Make sure pets have access to shade and fresh water. As much as pets may like to play outside, it’s very easy for them to get dehydrated or overheated.

Be careful of asphalt. Asphalt or metal surfaces can get extremely hot in the summer and can burn paws and reflect heat back on your pet. Pet owners can help avoid burns by choosing other surfaces to walk on or by walking their pets in the morning or evening. Test the surface by placing your hand just above the ground.

Just like humans, some dogs and cats get sunburn. If you’re considering shaving your pet this summer, make sure to leave at least an inch of hair. This will help protect your pet from the sun’s dangerous rays. Animals with short, light-colored coats can get sunburned.

Keep cats indoors on very hot days. Unlike dogs, cats do not drink a lot of water and can become dehydrated. Ensure your cat has a few cool and shady spots to retreat to around the house and garden. ​ Know the signs of a heat stroke. Pet owners should be educated on the symptoms of a heat stroke so they can react immediately if their pets exhibit symptoms. Symptoms include restlessness, panting, increased respiratory and heart rates, excessive drooling, vomiting and diarrhea. ​

​Please note that the clinic will be closed on Monday July 3rd for Canada day. We will re-open on Tuesday July 4th. In case of an emergency please contact the Toronto Animal Health Partners at 416-380-7400, or the Central Toronto Veterinary Referral and Emergency at 416-784-4444.  ​Hope everyone has a wonderful summer!