Heat Stroke: The normal body temperature of a dog or cat ranges between 100.4F – 102.2F. Our pets maintain this temperature through panting however sometimes they are unable to lose enough heat.

Dogs and cats probably do suffer from heat cramps and heat exhaustion like us humans but the symptoms are mild and we don’t recognize them. The condition that we see, and may cause the death of a pet, is heat stroke.

The type of car you drive is also relevant. Those with large glass areas such as hatchbacks and those that are dark in color heat up more quickly than other cars. Studies on various makes of popular cars have determined that dark colored hatchback cars heat up the quickest with temperatures reaching 163 degrees Fahrenheit during testing. This was almost double the outside temperature. In six minutes the temperature of most cars is up to 131 degrees Fahrenheit. If your dog is in the car at this temperature, it will be near death.

Prevention – Never leave your pet in a parked car in sunlight. The car heats up to be like a sauna even on mild days.

- Always leave your windows open in your car if you take your dog with you.

- Make sure your pet has plenty of fresh cool water (the water should be placed in the shade) available at all times.

Management of a heat stressed dog:

If owners are nearby – Immediately bring the animal to a shady spot.

- Slowly cool the animal by placing it in cool, NOT cold, water.

- Reduce body heat gradually.

- Apply ice packs to the head and neck.

- Take the distressed pet to the nearest veterinarian as soon as possible.

- Treatment for dehydration and other serious problems will be necessary.