Pets and Temperature Changes - how does it affect?

Temperature changes can be a potential risk for a pet's life, whether it's extreme heat or cold. When the temperature is outside of a pet's comfort zone, it can cause stress, discomfort, and even illness or death. In this blog, we'll explore why temperature changes are a risk to your pet's life and ways to protect them during extremes.

Why Temperature Changes are a Risk for Pet's Life?

Pets are sensitive to changes in temperature, just like humans. Extreme heat or cold can cause significant stress on their bodies, and they may not be able to regulate their temperature as well as we do. Exposure to extreme heat can lead to hyperthermia, dehydration, heatstroke, and organ damage in pets. On the other hand, exposure to extreme colds can lead to frostbite, hypothermia, and other cold-related illnesses.

Some pets may be more susceptible to temperature changes than others. For example, brachycephalic breeds, like pugs and bulldogs, have a harder time regulating their body temperature due to their short snouts and respiratory issues. Additionally, older pets or those with underlying health problems may also be more vulnerable to heat-related or cold-related issues.

Also Read: What Does Heat Stroke Look Like in Dogs?

Ways to Protect Your Pet During Temperature Extremes

Provide Access to Shade or Shelter: If your pet is spending time outside, it's important to provide access to shade or shelter. This can include a covered porch, doghouse, or other shaded areas where your pet can escape the sun's rays. If possible, try to keep your pet indoors during the hottest parts of the day.

Plenty of Fresh Water: Pets need access to plenty of fresh water during hot weather to stay hydrated. Make sure to refill water bowls frequently and consider adding ice cubes to help keep the water cool.

Monitor the ambient temperature: The temperature, along with humidity changes, are unwelcome. So it’s vital to keep an eagle eye on the pet’s ambient temperature using Waggle Pet Monitor. It accurately monitors the temperature swings in real-time whenever it rises or drops from the preset level. This way, it instantly alerts the pet parents and helps save pets before any potential risks. 

Appropriate Clothing or Gear: In extreme temperatures, pets may need extra protection from the elements. This can include wearing a coat or sweater in cold weather or booties to protect their paws from hot pavement. Be sure to choose appropriate clothing or gear for your pet's breed and size.

Avoid Exercising During Extreme Temperatures: Avoid exercising your pet during the hottest or coldest parts of the day. Instead, take walks early in the morning or in the evening when the temperature is cooler. If you must exercise your pet during extreme temperatures, keep it short and provide plenty of water breaks.

Never Leave Your Pet in a Parked Car: Leaving your pet in a parked car, even for a short period, can be extremely dangerous. The temperature inside a parked car can quickly become much higher than the outside temperature, leading to heat stroke or other heat-related issues.

Monitor Your Pet's Behavior: Keep an eye on your pet's behavior and signs of distress during temperature extremes. If you notice excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or collapse, it may be a sign that your pet is experiencing heat stroke or another heat-related illness.

That's a wrap!

Temperature changes can be a potential risk to a pet's life, but there are steps you can take to protect your pet during extremes. By providing access to shade or shelter, plenty of fresh water, appropriate clothing or gear, and avoiding exercise during extreme temperatures, you can help keep your pet safe and comfortable.

Remember to always monitor your pet's behavior and take appropriate action if you notice signs of distress. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure that your pet stays healthy and happy in any weather.