It is a well-known fact that leaving your pet in a vehicle can be life threatening to the animal. Their core temperature rises rapidly and since they do not sweat, panting is the only way of cooling down. In a hot car, however, panting alone is not sufficient and as the animal's body temperature increases with heat, stroke, collapse, brain damage and death become imminent.
According to a statement by the NSPCA, an external temperature of 24°C can increase to 48°C inside a car, whilst 34°C easily becomes a fatal 63°C.
The NSPCA advises cooling pets, especially makings use of a 360 shower or failing this, hosing them down will do wonders.
During hot days, pets need extra water. However make sure that the water is in the shade. Long or thick-coated animals need extra water and a place to cool down. A plastic children's swimming pool is ideal for this purpose.
Cats and dogs can both do with regular brushing during a heat wave to remove excess fur in order to cool them down.
Cats may have nine lives, but don't tempt the heat. Allow them access to cooler areas in your home during the heat of the day. Ice blocks work a charm to cool pets down during a heat wave and it also provides stimulation. The NSPCA even terms them 'boredom busters'. Adding ice cubes to your pet's water is also very effective in helping them cool down.
Visit http://www.pavedbypawprints.com/2-easy-dog-ice-block-recipes/ for ideas on how to make ice cubes for your pet to safeguard them against overheating.
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