A lot of us love to take our pets when we travel, especially on sunny days, which means riding with them in our cars. As you drive along the country roads or speed down the highways, you can keep your pet cool by rolling down the windows or turning on the air conditioning. Your furbaby might even enjoy sticking its head out the window to whiff the refreshing breeze!
However, it's important to be cautious and never leave your dog alone in the car, even for a short time. Leaving them in a hot car can have fatal consequences. The temperature inside a car can rise rapidly during the hotter months, turning it into an oven. Your dog will start to overheat quickly, panting desperately as they struggle to cool down. This can lead to heatstroke or even death.
Heatstroke can occur in just a matter of minutes, and on a hot day, a car can become dangerously hot in no time. Even if you park in the shade or leave the windows open, your pet is still at risk. The temperature inside a car can reach a staggering 47°C, even when it may not feel warm outside. The same applies when your pet is at home. Never leave them exposed to the elements outside, as they can heat rapidly.
If your dog shows signs of heatstroke, such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or collapsing, take immediate action. Cool them with cool (not cold) water and place cool towels on their belly, neck, and paws. Move your pet to a cool, shady area, then seek veterinary attention immediately.
To ensure the safety of your pet, only take them on car journeys when absolutely necessary. If you're running errands or going to places where pets aren't allowed, it's safest to leave them at home. Let's keep our beloved pets safe and prevent heatstroke.
