Helping Your Pet Keep His Cool This Summer

Dog panting from the heat.

Hot dogs may be a popular summertime treat for baseball fans and backyard cookouts, but allowing our canine friends to overheat is a potential fatal disaster! Keeping our pets cool as the temperatures heat up doesn't have to be a challenge if you keep a few easy facts in mind.

Dogs don't sweat like us; therefore, they rely on panting to cool themselves down during a warm day. Even just a few hours in the hot sun can spell tragedy for the pet and the owner. Everyone has heard about the horrors of dogs left in cars during summer days, but many of our pets can overheat easily in their own backyard.

Dogs need access to plenty of cool water and shade if they are going to be left outside for any extended period of time during warm weather. Even the seasoned "outdoor dogs" can succumb to higher temperatures if adequate shade and water are not provided. Short faced breeds, like Boxers and Bulldogs, are at higher risk because of their inability to pant effectively.

Signs that your pet may be experiencing heat stroke include: an inability to stand, weakness while standing, vigorous panting, thick ropy saliva, and occasionally, bright red mucous membranes.

This situation is a medical emergency!! Your pet needs to be seen by a veterinarian without delay. Immediately bring your pet to a cooler area out of the sun and apply cool, but not cold, water to the extremities. A fan is often very helpful as well. As soon as you can, load your dog into the car and go to your veterinarian. Elevated body temperatures can be fatal to your pet in a matter of minutes!

Don't let a preventable pet emergency spoil your summertime fun!

Location

Hospital entry & parking through the back alley.

Office Hours

Federal & Provincial holidays might affect hours.

Monday:

Open for emergencies, diagnostics, & boarding only

Tuesday:

10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Wednesday:

10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday:

10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Friday:

10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday:

10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Sunday:

10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Client feedback

  • ""I've been taking my lovebird here for 6 years. They're always busy because they take in every possible person in need. Very sweet and kind staff. I appreciate their work so much and I know my lovie is always in good hands.""
    P Fooks
  • ""Very helpful. They were there when we needed them. They helped us with our bird did everything they could for her. Thank you!""
    Violet Attfield
  • ""The only place any bird owner should go to if they want the best bird vets in BC. Quality care at very fair prices. Everyone there has a heart of gold and I look forward to each appointment because I know my birds will get the best care possible.""
    William Laycraft