I. Introduction to Traveling with Your Doggo

Attention dog owners and travel enthusiasts! Are you planning to take your furry friend on a road trip or a flight?

Many dog owners like to bring their furry friends with them wherever they can, whether they’re embarking on a cross-country adventure or a just quick getaway at a local park. Regardless of the duration and destination of the journey, it’s imperative to keep your dog safe just as you would any other passenger. Traveling with your dogs can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your furry companion.

But before you hit the road or take to the skies, consider the unique needs of your dog and prepare accordingly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about traveling with dogs in cars and on planes, so you can enjoy a stress-free trip with your beloved pet.

II. Traveling with Dogs in Cars

As pet parents, we all love spending time with our dog, including taking them on car rides. However, it’s crucial that you ensure the safety of your dog while traveling. Not only is it important to prevent driver distraction, but it also helps prevent injuries to both the dog and passengers in the event of an accident.

THE IMPORTANCE OF SECURING DOGS IN YOUR CAR

According to the American Automobile Association (AAA):

• an unrestrained 4.5 kg (small) dog in a crash at 50 km/h exerts approximately 135 kilograms of force;
• an unrestrained 36 kg (large) dog in a crash at only 50 km/h will exceed 1000 kgs of force.

These numbers are shockingly high, emphasizing the importance of securing your precious pup in a car for safety reasons. Not only is this a hazard for all vehicle occupants, an unsecured dog can cause distractions for the driver, making it more difficult to focus on the job at hand – keeping their eyes on the road.

HOW CAN I KEEP MY DOG SAFE IN THE CAR?

Keeping your dog secured while in the car will keep them, you, your passengers and even other drivers safe. There are many products on the market to help keep your dog safe while in the car. Finding the right one will depend on your type of car and type of dog.

There are three main methods of securing your dog(s) while your car in motion:

 1. Dog Carriers or Crates

This is a common option for big and small dogs. However, if your dog likes to roam – or likes to extend their nose out a cracked window – there is little to no mobility. In the event of a severe crash, the crate can give them an extra level of protection from the rigidity of the frame and also prevents your pup from getting loose if someone other than you lets them out. The biggest downside is that some dogs may experience anxiety when locked inside a crate or carrier.

2. Dog Harnesses for Cars

This is a great option, as it lets your pet wander around in the backseat AND keep them secure in the event of a crash. They’re lightweight and work seamlessly with your existing backseat hardware. They work just as well as a dog car seat.

Before you purchase a dog harness, measure your dogs’ chest circumference, height, and weight to ensure it fits properly. This is key. If it’s too big, your pup could slide out of it in the event of a crash. Too tight, and your pup will be uncomfortable – and anxious – for the duration of the car ride.

3.  Car Seats for Designed for Dogs

These are primarily for very small to medium-sized dogs, as they tend to require extra padding and comfort while on the road. Some of these special booster car seats for dogs may come with a built-in harness.

If your pup is prone to motion sickness when the car is moving, some reports suggest that this option can help reduce it. Seems logical as it help reduces excess movement. It’s a good idea to make sure the sides of the seat are high enough to prevent them from falling out, in the event of a sudden stop.

When selecting a dog car seat, harness, or crate, it is essential to consider the size and weight of your dog.

• smaller dogs (less than 12 kgs.), a car seat or a harness is recommended;
• larger dogs (+12 kgs.), a crate or a harness is ideal.

The car seat or crate should be securely fastened and situated in a way that it can’t be dislodged while the car is in motion. The harness should be securely attached to the car’s seat belt, ensuring that the dog is safely restrained.

When you’re ready to shop, be sure to look at the reviews and locate the options that come from pet parents with a dog similar to your own.

HOW TO PREPARE YOUR DOG FOR LONG CAR RIDES?

Preparing your pup for an extended car ride is essential to ensure their comfort and safety.

To help with the process, we recommended the following:

1. Condition your dog as early as possible (puppy stage) with any car safety devices. Using a little Pavlovian psychology, also known as classical conditioning (treats!), may help older dogs during shorter trips to get acclimated to car travel.
2. Take your dog on short car rides to adapt them to being in a car. This helps to prevent motion sickness and anxiety during longer trips. Bring a favourite blanket, toy, or dog bed to keep your dog comfortable (or distracted!) during the journey.
3. Regular washroom breaks and hydration are critical for your dog’s welfare during longer car rides. This reduces stress and anxiety.
4. Choosing the right car seat, harness, or crate based on your pup’s chest circumference, height, and weight.

Based on these recommendations, plan your route accordingly and seek out dog-friendly rest stops where you and your dog can take a break and stretch your legs. By addressing these concerns upfront, you can create a stable, stress-free and enjoyable car ride for both you and your canine companion.

III. Traveling with dogs on planes

Traveling by air can be a frustrating, daunting and time-consuming task for most humans. Now add your favourite pup into the mix…flying with your favourite canine doesn’t sound appealing at all! Not only is air travel a stressful experience for dogs – and pet parents alike – but there are also rules and regulations that must be followed to ensure their safety and comfort.

In this section, we will discuss three key considerations when flying with your dog, from airline policies to selecting a suitable airline, and preparing your dog for the long, stressful journey ahead.

1. Requirements for International Flying

Requirements for international flying with your dog can vary from airline to airline. Thus, researching the particular policies of the airline you plan to fly with is of the upmost importance.

Generally, airlines require that dogs are at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned before their allowed on any airline. Additionally, your pup must be up-to-date on their vaccinations and have a health certificate issued by a veterinarian. Some airlines may have breed or size restrictions, so make sure to check these beforehand.

Security screenings points can be a stressful part for both dogs and their owners. Prior to screening, remove any collars or harnesses. To avoid this step, consider purchasing a non-metallic collar or harness to avoid setting off metal detectors.

This is THE most important part: always inform security personnel that you are traveling with your dog, as they may need to inspect the carrier separately.

V. Conclusion

In the post, we discussed the importance of safe and comfortable travel with dogs, whether it’s in a car or on a plane. We emphasized the need to secure dogs in a car with a car seat, harness, or crate to prevent injuries in case of an accident. We provided tips on selecting the right travel gear, such as a suitable airline-approved carrier for flying with a dog, and how to prepare dogs for long trips, including potty breaks, hydration, and exercise. We also addressed common concerns such as motion sickness and anxiety.

Dogs have unique needs and preferences when it comes to traveling, so owners should take the time to plan accordingly and make sure their dogs are comfortable and safe throughout the journey. With proper planning and preparation, pet parents can ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience for themselves and their beloved canine companions.

What Causes a Cat To Sneeze?

Our feline friends sneeze for the same reasons humans do: usually an itch in the nose, prompted by suspended particles in the air such as dust, smoke or even their own cat fur.

Sneezing is a normal, biological function when it occurs infrequently. It’s even normal for a cat to throw an occasional sneezing fit. However, it’s uncommon for a cat to sneeze several times a day for many days in a row. If sneezing persists – or if other symptoms develop along with sneezing – you may need to check with our veterinarians to see if treatment is required.

However, there can be more serious reasons why your cat is sneezing.

7 COMMON CAUSES OF WHY CATS SNEEZE:

     1.  External Irritation

When we think of external irritants, it’s noxious smells (such as chemicals) and exposure to toxins (rat poison) that come readily to mind. However, supposedly non-threatening household products can also trigger sneezing.

For example:

• cooking spices – pepper and cinnamon are two common sources – may irritate a cat’s sensitive nose, especially if she’s curious about what’s happening in the kitchen.
• household cleaning products, including those with bleach, vinegar or other chemicals.
• Essential oils: while they may enhance your mood and living experience, it could cause distress with your feline friend – your cat’s acute sense of smell may induce a sneezing fit.

     2. Foreign Material

Curious cats get all sorts of foreign material lodged in their noses.

• Objects like lint, grass or a hair.
• Airborne bodies such as pollen, or other allergens.
• Dust and other airborne particles such as smoke.

As in humans, when these particles are inhaled by a cat, the animal’s reaction is to sneeze to expel the foreign debris. If sneezing doesn’t expel the lodged material, make arrangements for an appointment at our veterinary clinic immediately.

     3. Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs)

If your cat is sneezing more than normal, it’s more than likely that your feline friend has an upper respiratory infection or URI. The most widespread respiratory infection is Feline Herpesvirus or FHV. It’s estimated that as many as 80-90% of all cats are infected with FHV.

Most cats have been exposed to upper respiratory viruses as kittens, and are chronic carriers of the virus. When cats get stressed or immunosuppressed, the dormant virus has the ability to re-emerge. In sneezing cats, viral URIs are usually – as a general rule – the underlying issue.

Although there is emerging research to suggest that existing medications could improve results for cats infected with herpesvirus, there is currently no cure, and infections are lifelong.

Other viral infections that can contribute to sneezing cats include Calicivirus (which the FVRCP combo vaccine provides protection against) and influenza.

     4. Dental Disease

As the Pet Health Network notes, “dental disease can cause sneezing particularly involving root infections. Infections of the feline tooth can allow bacteria to establish in the nasal sinus with resulting inflammation and sneezing.”

Many pet parents are surprised to discover that dental disease can contribute to cat sneezing. Like most cases, sneezing is a symptom of a larger issue. The root canals of the teeth on the upper jaw are located right next to the nasal passages. When a tooth (or teeth) become infected, or when severe inflammation occurs, the wall between the tooth hole and the nasal passage can be breached. If left untreated, bacteria can travel to other parts of the body.

This condition is generally painful and serious. If you suspect that your cat has dental issues, a veterinary visit is strongly recommended.

     5.  Bacterial Infections

When you observe a yellow or green discharge originating from your cat’s nose or eyes – accompanied by excessive sneezing – it’s a sure sign of a bacterial infection.

In cats, bacterial infections rarely act alone; they almost always play a secondary role after a respiratory virus or other medical condition causes damage to the nasal passages. Always opportunists, bacteria use the occasion to take advantage of the weakened barriers that usually protect cats from such attacks.

     6. Neoplasia

As with most sneezing symptoms, neoplasia (tumors) is always on the list of possible reasons, in older cats especially. Aberrant (cancer) cells can grow inside the nasal passage, creating irritation and inflammation that causes the cat to sneeze. These tumors are typically detected visually via rhinoscopy or a nasal biopsy. When present, the diagnosis, regrettably, usually results in very poor outcomes.

     7.  Fungal Infections

Although relatively rare compared to viral or bacterial infections, fungal infections are a known cause of sneezing in cats. A fungus – known as Cryptococcus – is the most common offender.

By itself, a physical exam will not be adequate to distinguish a fungal infection from other causes of cat sneezing – rhinoscopy or a biopsy is typically needed to reach a definitive diagnosis.

My cat is sneezing more than usual. What should I do?

STEP 1:  Study your cat’s environment and consider potential causes. Looking for patterns can help determine if your cat is sneezing due to an irritant, such as dust or perfume, or if it’s caused by an infection or other underlying condition.

• Does sneezing occur around the same time each day?
• Does it only happen in a specific room or during household activities?
• Have you introduced new cat litter? Dusty and/or scented litter may cause your cats to sneeze.
• Are you using new products in your home? Cats can be sensitive to the smell of cleaners, candles, scented oils and perfumes.
• Does your home need thorough cleaning? Dust or pollen are usually suspects.

STEP 2:  If you do suspect your cat has an upper respiratory infection, here are some immediate steps you can take to provide some relief before you confirm a vet appointment.

• Remove any discharge from your cat’s nose and face with warm, moistened cotton or clean cloth.
• Attempt to get your cat to eat: warming up canned/wet food for easier digestion.
• Provide plenty of fresh water.
• Keep a humidifier humming to help keep your cat’s nasal passages moist.

STEP 3:  If you have taken all the steps to rule out environmental causes and your cat’s sneezing still persists, it’s time to schedule a veterinary appointment.

When is it Time to See My Veterinarian?

If your cat sneezes once in a while, and has no other symptoms (or has only mild symptoms) you may want to simply monitor them for a few days. There’s probably nothing to be concerned about at this point. As a precaution, keep your cat indoors and watch for changes.

However, these signs – accompanied with excessive sneezing – are more serious and require an immediate vet visit:

• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Nasal discharge
• Worsening of symptoms
• Persistence of symptoms beyond a few days

Treatment of Upper Respiratory Infections in Cats

Treatment for an excessively sneezing feline is typically targeted towards an underlying cause – the culprit that usually emerges is an upper respiratory infection.

While a wide variety of treatments are available, owners should be aware that the goal in most cases – especially chronic ones – is to reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms, not to cure them.

The severity of the upper respiratory infection will determine the treatment response. In cases with mild symptoms, URIs may resolve on their own after a couple of weeks or be aided by simpler treatment solutions.

Treatments for mild cases:

• Humidifiers or vaporizers
• Antihistamines and decongestants
• NSAIDs
• Antinausea medications
• Eye and/or nose drops

For more progressive cases, treatments options may include:

• Antiviral medications or antibiotics: Although bacterial infections are rarely the primary issue, antibiotics are often used to make your kitty feel better faster.
• Nasal Lavage: Flushing the nasal passages is done under general anesthesia can temporarily ease symptoms, regardless of the cause. It can also dislodge hidden foreign material.
• Steroids
• Subcutaneous fluids (to alleviate dehydration)
• Surgery (in extreme cases)

Advanced cases may require hospitalization to administer more intensive treatments, such as IV fluids and nutritional support. Upper respiratory infections – if left untreated – can lead to other serious complications such as pneumonia ands chronic breathing issues.

Conclusion

When your cat sneezes, it’s usually because of some simple, benign cause: a floating particle (ie. dust, pollen) that gets inhaled through the nose. This irritates the nasal passage causing in an involuntary bodily function present in all mammals – a sneeze.

However, if your beloved kitty companion is persistently sneezing and has nasal discharges, it’s time to see one of our fearless and compassionate veterinarians. We’re here to help.

Felines with upper respiratory infections are not uncommon in most vet practices. Fortunately, the majority of infections respond well to treatment and your cat will continue to lead a fulfilling life of sleeping, insisting to be fed and ignoring you.

The CPC WebStore: Save Time and Money.

Life gets busy.

Imagine running out of prescription pet food for your beloved pet. It’s the Friday before a long weekend and stocking up on food and treats has completely passed your mind. Or you’re unable to pick up food at the clinic in person. Or you finally remember at the last minute, only to find out your clinic is temporarily sold out. You may think this is rare, but when it does occur it can cause quite a lot of undue stress.

The solution?

Ordering your pet’s needs through our WebStore. It saves you time AND money.

Cabbagetown Pet Clinic gives you the option to order therapeutic food, treats, toys and prescription refills online, 24/7. Our WebStore provides our clients the simplicity of online shopping for therapeutic pet foods requiring a veterinary prescription. And a convenient automatic re-fill option ensures pet owners don’t run out of the prescription food or medications their pets need, resulting in better pet health and welfare.

What are the advantages of our WebStore?

Our WebStore offers you the convenience of shopping for your pet’s products whenever you have the time. It can sometimes be inconvenient to come to our clinic to buy food, treats or your pet’s favourite toys – the WebStore provides you with 24/7 service.

• Access to exclusive sales, promotions and rebates.
• Order anytime at your convenience, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Delivery to your doorstep. Products can be shipped directly to the address of your choosing: your home, cottage, neighbour or office with the exception of PO boxes.
• AutoOrder: Automatic Home Delivery. Have your pet products automatically delivered to your address. Select shipping frequency, delay your shipment or cancel at any time. Never run out of food again!
• Free Clinic Pick-up. When you order online, you can also choose to pick-up your order at our clinic, it’s always FREE!
• Huge Selection. Shop a full catalogue of products for your pet such as prescription food, toys, treats and shampoo…all at competitive prices.
• Free Shipping on orders over $150.00.
• Prescription Refills available upon veterinarian approval.

The Best Feature on WebStore? AutoOrder

Beyond the convenience of ordering online, the most powerful feature of our WebStore is the ability for our clients to sign up for AutoOrder. It’s essentially a subscription service that will automatically send product automatically – typically prescription food – at an interval of your choosing. It could be one week, two weeks or more, depending on your pets eating habits and product size.

Once enrolled, you’ll automatically be shipped a bag (or case) of your pet’s prescription food before the current bag is empty. This ensures that you’ll never be out of pet food on a long weekend or when the veterinary hospital is closed.

In addition to being a huge time saver, signing up for AutoOrder will also save you money! Familiar prescription diets like Hills, Royal Canin and Purina offer various discounts and incentives on their food, if placed by AutoOrder.

How do I Register?

Registration is easy! There are 2 ways to register:

1. Sign up on the Cabbagetown Pet Clinic website.
2. Have our staff members register you. Gives us a call – this can be done over the phone in minutes.

Once registered, you’ll receive an email automatically, giving you a secure password – this can be changed anytime through the WebStore under My Account. Important* Information about you or your pet will never be sold or accessible to any third parties. WebStore Privacy Policy.

Was it inevitable?

During the pandemic, people went shopping in record numbers – for pets.

Many of these purchases were by new owners adopting a pet for the first time, presumably to soothe their boredom and loneliness as government measures to help stop the spread and work-from-home took hold.

Now the pendulum has swung and surrenders to animal shelters are on the rise.

The last two years have seen huge societal shifts. Now that we’re adapting to the “new” normal, you may find yourself returning to the office and not being home to properly care for your pet. You’re definitely experiencing high inflation, making it more difficult to keep up with rising costs. You may be facing a potential job loss. All these factors are putting a strain on pet parents, veterinarians and animal shelters. Animal shelters are now in crisis-mode because of staffing shortages, higher operating costs and access to veterinary care.

Unfortunately, this number is expected to rise.

In this post, we will offer 5 ways to help keep your pet out of the shelter system.

Why are pet parents surrendering their cherished pets?

1. Pet Ownership Costs

Most new pet owners are now past the start-up costs associated with their pandemic pet purchase. According to rover.com, initial costs for Canadian pet parents during the pandemic ranged from $700 to $1,800 for cats and $1,300 to $3,300 for dogs.

This includes all pet parent start up obligations such as bowls, leashes, crates, microchipping, nail trimmers, poop bags or litter boxes, flea and tick prevention, food, bedding, adoption fees, vaccinations and spaying or neutering.

However, it’s the ongoing costs that pet parents new to the ownership game may struggle to reconcile, especially for financially strapped pet owners amidst surging inflation.  Some costs are up 30% or more from January 2021. This includes food, grooming, vaccines, toys and flea and tick prevention, among others.

2. Spay and Neuter Deferrals

Another reason for the increase in unwanted pets – the postponement of spay and neuter early in the pandemic. Some clinics – Cabbagetown Pet Clinic excluded – were forced to pause spay and neuter surgery for a short period of time because of PPE availability concerns. We’re now approaching the fourth generation of unwanted litters that arose from that period.

3. Staffing: Veterinary Care Access

Yes, it’s affecting every business, not just veterinary care. However, veterinarians and veterinary technicians – at the best of times – tend to have higher rates of depression, burnout and suicidal thoughts. The study linked above was completed in February 2020, right at the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic pet syndrome has only exacerbated these results since then, leading many to leave the industry completely.

Where have they gone?

Some veterinarians have sold their practices and retired, while others have just left the industry entirely to pursue other interests. Unfortunately, veterinary schools in Canada and the United States are not even close to replacing them, creating a giant hole in veterinary access for pet parents when they need it most. There are open positions in almost every animal hospital and filling them is an ongoing struggle that appears will not end soon.

4. Veterinary Operations Costs

We could go into all the reasons why veterinary costs are what they are, but for some clients that would never be satisfactory. We get it – pet ownership comes with significant financial commitments that new pet parents may not have carefully thought through when they stepped into the pandemic pet ownership arena.

Although the standard exams fees have barely budged, clinic supply chains are creating limitations for the basics – particularly vaccines and medications – and prices have increased accordingly with the world-wide rise of runaway inflation. Couple that with higher wages and incentives for recruiting employees and the cost of veterinary care has risen appreciably.

In basic Economics 101 language, demand is high and supply is low.

5 ways to save money and keep your pet out of the shelter system.

I’m committed to keeping my pet out of the shelter system. How can I save money and keep my pet?

If your financial position has become precarious for whatever reason (job loss, moving into pet-free apartment, medical condition) and you think that you can’t swing the ongoing expense of pet parenting, we can offer 5 ways to help address your unique situation – and avoid surrendering your pet to an animal shelter.

1. Known knowns – be completely transparent about all the costs associated with your pet.

This is an easy first step. Take a few minutes with a pad and paper and list every expense for your pet. It would include annual vaccines, food, pet supplies, etc. If you’re unsure about future expenses, review your transactions from the previous month, or even year.

Put the cost beside each item and arrive at a total. If the total is worrying, take a deep breath. This is an important first step – seeing where you currently stand allows you to chart a path forward.

2. Identify all the ways to save on day-to-day expenses – implement them today.

There are lots of ways to save on pet expenses.

• Bulk-buy food and supplies (Costco)
• Use digital coupons for pet food (ie. Hill’s Diet, Purina)
• Make diet adjustments of to reduce food costs (consult with your veterinarian first!)
• Cashback / Loyalty credit cards for pet products
• Homemade treats
• Food banks with pet food reserves
• Score pet supply bargains at Winners or Marshalls

If you are currently (over)spending in some areas (restaurants, vacations), can you reduce some of those discretionary costs in your lifestyle? And is it worth to you? We’re not here to preach, but if the answer is ‘no’, then it’s likely that you’re not prepared to make the sacrifices necessary to keep your pet happy and healthy.

3. Delay the non-necessities; save up instead.

This does NOT mean delaying medical treatment for your pet. However, there are many things that can be put on the back burner.

• Hold off on adopting playmates for your pet
• Need a new crate? Check the second-hand market for gently-used pet products (ie. Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji)
• Specialty pet shampoos and grooming items
• Wash an old dog collar, don’t replace it.
• Skip expensive training classes; DIY
• Reserve funds: If you have flexibility in your budget, start a reserve fund for yourself and your pet. Having emergency reserve funds can help pay for unplanned vet bills or even cover the basics – like food – if your circumstances change.

4. Raise money and/or look for financial pet support.

Most people would rather “keep up appearances” or poke themselves with a sharp object in the eye than ask for financial assistance. It’s a blow to our ego, but this shouldn’t deter you in the face of losing your cherished companion.

• Can you upgrade your job and salary in the midst of the Great Resignation? Keeping your beloved pet is always extra motivation to make a move.
• Is there additional work available, such as a second job or extra shifts? Weigh the financial benefits of extra work against how much time you have available – your pet still needs you!
• Sell your unwanted items on Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace – ie. clothing, guitars, bicycles – then use this money to cover pet expenses.
• It’s completely acceptable to ask friends and family for help with practical pet essentials, provided they care about you and your pet.
• Assistance Programs: The Farley Foundation assists those who are struggling financially to pay for veterinary care. You can find program details here. The Cabbagetown Pet Clinic is a dedicated partner of the Farley Foundation – the diverse Cabbagetown community is the beneficiary.

5. Consider Pet Insurance

It’s folly to say, “it would never happen to my pet”. It is almost a certainty that every pet during its lifetime will have a major veterinary bill.

Pet insurance means that you have to imagine the possibility of an unforeseen medical, worst-case scenario involving your beloved pet’s well-being. You shouldn’t have to worry about how to pay for the best veterinary medicine available when the unexpected arrives at your doorstep.

Some pet owners incorporate pet insurance in their monthly budget. The prices for coverage vary widely, so shop around. If you choose not purchase pet insurance, then be prepared allocate the same amount of money (premium) into an emergency reserve fund – this could range anywhere from $50-$70 per month.

Trupanion Canada is our preferred pet insurance partner and just happens to be one of the largest providers in Canada. They keep pet insurance simple by offering a single (and excellent) pet insurance plan that will cover the needs of most pet parents.

Ask us how to receive 30 days of FREE coverage at your next appointment.

*costs reflect procedures in major metropolitan areas based on Trupanion’s research and experience in 2019.

Conclusion

In addition to shelter surrenders, who knows how many pets are being abandoned by the side of the road in remote, rural parts of Canada? We can’t even imagine what goes through a pet’s mind when their owner drives away leaving them to fend for themselves. Heartbreaking…

That said, the ‘perfect storm’ for animal shelters is ongoing. With supply chain issues and staffing, shelters in most municipalities lack the necessary resources to accommodate this current surge, resulting in them being understaffed and turning away pets. It’s incumbent upon pet parents to look for any means possible – without causing their pet undo harm – before giving up the responsibility of pet ownership.

Canine Hyperthermia: How to keep your dog cool in hot weather

After a long, cold Canadian winter, we’re all more than ready to head outside with our furry family members for some fun in the sun.

However, summer in Toronto usually means one thing – hot, humid weather. Nobody likes to be soaked in perspiration and feeling drained, including dogs. They’re suffering just as much as us – if not more – under that shiny, fur coat.

When the temperatures rise and the sun shines, we dutifully take precautions, such as wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated. The same goes for dogs – it’s up to responsible pet parents to keep them safe and comfortable on excessively hot and humid days.

Take steps to protect your dog in the summer heat.

Whether taking your dog for a walk, a ride in the car or just playing in the backyard, heat and humidity can pose a significant threat. Heatstroke or exhaustion can easily cut your outdoor escapades short and result in harmful outcomes.

WHAT IS HEAT STROKE IN DOGS?

Heat stroke (aka. heat exhaustion, heat prostration or hyperthermia) is a term used to describe an elevated body temperature above the generally accepted norm. Although normal temperatures for dogs will vary, it is acknowledged that body temperatures above 39° C (103° F) are excessive.

When a dog’s body temperature climbs above the normal range, they begin to lose their ability to regulate their internal temperature. Up to this point, dogs can normalize their body temperature through respiratory means (panting) or through sweat glands in the nose and paws.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF HEAT STROKE OR HEAT EXHAUSTION IN DOGS?

It’s relatively easy to spot the earliest sign of an overheated pup – excessive panting. This is the first indication to get your dog into a cooler environment. Other early signs are more indirect, but may be as simple as your dog being less reactive to regular commands or drinking more water than usual.

If you happen to miss these early indicators and exposure to oppressive heat persists, a severely overheated dog may collapse, experience convulsions and/or exhibit vomiting. Therefore, you must identify the problem before it gets to that point. If there is any uncertainty at all, GET YOUR DOG OUT OF THE HEAT. Yes, we’re yelling…

Visible symptoms of heat stroke in dogs include:

• difficulty breathing; excessive drooling or panting
• severe thirst
• weakness and/or fatigue
• unsteady, uncoordinated movements
• vomiting
• agitation and disorientation
• dark or bright red tongue and gums
• elevated and/or irregular heart rate
• dark, bloody stools
• muscle tremors/seizures

Severe heat stroke in dogs can cause internal medical issues, such as kidney failure, brain swelling and intestinal bleeding. This is bad. If you observe any of the above tell-tale symptoms, immediate veterinary care at our clinic or an after-hours emergency facility is highly recommended.

WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS FOR HEATSTROKE OR HEAT EXHAUSTION?

All dogs are at risk for overheating under the right conditions. However, dogs with heavy coats/long hair, very young or very old dogs and brachycephalic breeds tend to be more susceptible. Overweight dogs and those that suffer from underlying medical conditions – causing breathing or heart problems – are especially vulnerable.

9 Factors that Raise the Risk of Heat Stroke in Dogs:

• dehydration due to inadequate water intake or lack of water access
• age – the very young and very old
• obesity, resulting in poor heart and/or lung conditioning
• underlying history of heart or lung related disease
• increased levels of thyroid hormone
• flat-faced, short-nosed, breeds such as boxers, shih tzus, bulldogs and pugs
• heavy, long and/or dark coats
• extremely active dogs and working/hunting breeds such as shepherds, spaniels and retrievers
• environmental factors such as overheated automobiles or lack of shade

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR DOG IS OVERHEATED

At the first sign of overheating, immediate action is required to cool down your dog.

5 Ways to Treat an Overheated Dog:

• move your dog immediately to a cooler area, either indoors where there is air conditioning or into the nearest shade.
• it’s a bit of a stretch, but if you have a rectal thermometer, check your dog’s temperature. Heat stroke or exhaustion normally occurs when a dog’s temperature exceeds 39° C or 103° F. If your dog enters this ‘danger zone’, call our veterinary clinic immediately.
• if you’re near a body of fresh water (lake or pool), encourage your dog take a dip. In the absence of a body of water, use a cooled towel to help reduce core body temperature. Place the towel around the neck, armpits and between the hind legs.
• if your dog is conscious, give him cool, fresh water. Forcing your dog to drink is ill-advised, as it may end up in the lungs creating more issues. If your pup can’t – or won’t -drink, liberally wet their tongue with water. Feeding ice cubes sounds like a good idea, however, it may cause their temperature to drop too quickly, leading to shock.
• get your dog to our animal hospital. Call ahead so we can administer prompt treatment as soon as you arrive. If it’s an after-hours emergency, take your dog to the nearest 24/7 emergency animal hospital.

6 TIPS TO KEEP YOUR DOG COOL AND BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT:

     1. Always Stay Hydrated.

While outside, make sure your dog has access to fresh water, shade and shelter away from direct sunlight. At home, keep fresh drinking water in their dish. Toss ice cubes into the bowl for an extra cool-down measure.

     2. Be Exercise Wise.

If you plan on walking your dog in the summer heat, limit walks and playtime to short sessions at cooler times of the day – the early morning or late evening. Bring along a water bottle or collapsible water dish with lots of cold water and take frequent water breaks. If possible, stay on the shady side of the street and remember that your dog’s paws are very sensitive to hot pavement.

     3. Go for a Dip.

One of the best ways for your dog to stay cool is to find water, whether it’s a lake, river, neighbour’s pool, kiddie pool, local dog pool or simply at the business end of a garden hose.

     4. Create A Breeze.

A no-brainer – a breeze can make summer heat more bearable. For cooling by evaporation, a strategically placed fan can create enough moving air to provide your dog some solid, cool-down relief.

     5. Frozen Treats and Toys.

Chilled or frozen dog treats are an excellent summer treat for your dog. They not only help keep your dog cool, but also aid in relieving boredom when it’s too hot to be outside.

     6. Stay Inside.

The easiest strategy, especially if you have a brachycephalic breed, an elderly and/or obese dog –  keep them inside your air-conditioned home except for quick outdoor bathroom breaks. If you’re without air conditioning, keep your windows and curtains shut during the day to keep the heat out. Run fans to help keep you dog cool and open the windows at night to let the cooler air in.