Keep Your Pets Safe On These Hot, Humid Maine Days

The recent streak of heat and humidity has been brutal for many Mainers. But it's not just humans who can suffer in these unbearably hot and muggy conditions. Animals can have a really tough time knowing when to take a break, especially since many of them just want to keep up with the people they love.

It's important to remember some key things to keep our furry friends safe when temps rise in the summer.

First and foremost; if you don't have to take your pets with you in the car on hot days, leave them home.

The folks at the Eastern Maine Emergency Vet Clinic say dogs and cats cannot sweat like humans do. Instead, they pant to help regulate their core body temperature on a hot day. So if you do think your animal is overheating, you'll want to act quickly to help them cool down.

They say as tempting as it may be to put ice cubes in the water to help, it's actually something that could do more harm than good. There are other, safer ways to get them help.

"If your pet is panting, starting to have excessive drooling, and laying down with a very large tongue hanging out of their mouth... and it's hot... be concerned. Put a fan in front of them, get them water, get them in the shade."

Making sure they have adequate shade and water on hot days is of vital importance.

The EMEVC put together a helpful infographic with some other things you might find helpful.

For those who typically like to take their best buds out and about on foot, you may want to think twice on hot days, too, and here's why:

"Don't take them for hikes in the middle of the day on a hot and humid day. Check the pavement with your hand before you ask your dog to walk on it. Be mindful that humidity can affect them just as much as heat!"

If you even suspect that your pet might be suffering from heat stroke, the vets at the Emergency Clinic say time is of the essence; seek medical help immediately, as many animals can fall quickly into organ failure when their body temps rise too high, too quickly.

You can find the folks at the Eastern Maine Emergency Vet Clinic on their website, or by calling (207) 989-6267.