List of summer health tips for your furry buddies

If you think people are the only ones vulnerable to heat stroke in this scorching summer heat, think again. Your pet cats or dogs are likely to suffer also.

Summer temperatures in the country in the past weeks have reached staggering proportions, rising between  37  and 39°C.

And according to the state weather bureau, summer temperatures are expected to peak this May.

Seeking to educate and inform the Philippine pet community through its Well-fed, Well-nurtured campaign, the Pet Food Institute (PFI) serving as the voice of the United States pet food industry has listed  a quick guide to pet health this summer season in the Philippines.

PFI's latest public awareness advocacy urges proper feeding and nutrition of pets.

Although summer provides great opportunities for pet owners to enjoy fun outdoor activities  with their pets, PFI reminds that cats and dogs are sensitive to high temperatures and other factors in the environment.

As the bodies of these animals respond differently to the ever-changing climate, owners must be aware of possible risks that may affect their pets’ health.

Manage water supply

While summer is the most active time of the year for pets, fun under the heat can bring some dangers. Unlike people, cats and dogs do not have sweat glands to help them cool down.

Pets regulate their body temperature primarily by panting and to a small degree by releasing heat through their paws. As a result, keeping their bodies cool becomes a challenge on warm days.

If people succumb to high temperatures that impact bare skin, imagine how cats and dogs feel with fur all over their bodies. Sun exposure and the intense humidity that it brings may lead to heat stroke, which is a serious emergency that requires immediate action.

Signs of heat stroke include heavy panting, difficulty in breathing, redness of the tongue and mouth, and stumbling or staggering.

If a pet is experiencing heat stroke, it is important to cool down a pet immediately by spraying it with a garden hose, immersing it in cool water (not ice water), or similar means.

And if a pet collapses due to heat stroke, it is a sign of a dire health condition.

When the pet’s body temperature falls below 39°C it should once again be in a safe temperature zone. It is important not to allow a pet’s body temperature to continue to drop because the opposite health problem, hypothermia, could also occur.

Dogs with short muzzles (called brachycephalic) such as bulldogs, boxers, pugs and Pekingeses are particularly susceptible to heat stroke.

PFI says dogs should never be left in a car with the windows rolled up on a hot day.

But besides protection from heat stroke, PFI has provided more suggestions for pet health this summer.

Provide fresh clean water

Water supply can also become a summer hazard for pets if kept unclean. Not only is it important for pets to have continuous access to water, but that water should not be allowed to stagnate.

Pet owners must make sure to regularly provide fresh, clean water. Toxic elements may develop in stagnant water and unwashed dishes or bowls that can cause illnesses for cats and dogs.

Sources of hydration should be fresh in order for pets to stay in top shape for summer activities.

Fatigue in pets

Sharing a great time with family, friends, and pets comes with endless ventures under the sun.

However, engaging cats and dogs into too many events can cause them to excessively use energy and eventually overheat.

Any activity must be carried on with reasonable pace to control body heat and avoid any risks of stress from overexertion.

Be very observant of any symptoms of over-exertion or heat stroke such as loss of balance and heavy breathing.

Defend against parasites

Being exposed to various environmental factors should also prompt owners to take precautions before taking pets on outdoor adventures.

Vulnerability to fleas, ticks, and other parasites can threaten their health and spoil the summer fun.

Take the time to visit a local veterinarian to prevent contraction of diseases from the surroundings.

Give them healthy meals

Days in the field or of summertime travel are best enjoyed with perfect physical and mental health. What better way to sustain endurance and agility than a complete and balanced diet?

PFI believes that with scientifically formulated and nutritionally balanced food made to the highest standards, pets are able to perform at their best.

Pet food contents fortified with vitamins and minerals lead to energy-filled daily experiences and promote long, healthy lives.

“Complete and balanced pet food that meets the complex nutritional needs of pets remains key in supporting health and improving lifespan. Commercial U.S. pet foods are  carefully formulated to provide complete and balanced nutrition for cats and dogs,” said PFI President Duane Ekedahl.

PFI seeks to further drive awareness on responsible pet ownership through proper nutrition and feeding through partnerships and a series of informational initiatives in the Philippines.

PFI represents the companies that make 98 percent of U.S. pet food. It is the industry's public education and media relations resource, representative before the U.S. Congress and state and federal agencies, organizer of seminars and educational programs, and liaison with other organizations.

PFI's advocacy is to promote the overall care and well-being of pets, and supporting initiatives to advance the quality nutrition for dogs and cats.