Hot Cars & Summer Heat: A Guide for Chicago Pet Owners

Summer heat waves have us humans sweating more and more each year, but they also present a serious danger for our pets: heatstroke.

Every year, pets are left in hot cars or end up overexerting themselves in the heat. At Oz Animal Hospital, we want to be clear: this is a preventable tragedy! Understanding the risks and knowing how to act can save your pet’s life, so this blog explains the basics.

The Hot Car Danger: It’s Faster and More Serious Than You Think

Cracking a window is not enough.

  • On an 85-degree day, the temperature inside a parked car can soar to over 100 degrees in just 10 minutes. In 30 minutes, it can reach 120 degrees.
  • For a pet whose primary way of cooling down is panting, this environment quickly becomes a deadly trap.

Spotting the Signs of Heatstroke: An URGENT Checklist

If you see these signs in any pet, it is a medical emergency. Act immediately.

Early to Moderate Signs:

  • Excessive, heavy panting
  • Thick, sticky drool
  • Bright red gums and tongue
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Restlessness or agitation

Severe / Critical Signs:

  • Weakness, dizziness, or staggering (acting “drunk”)
  • Pale or bluish gums
  • Collapse or loss of consciousness
  • Seizures

What To Do IMMEDIATELY If You Suspect Heatstroke:

  1. Move your pet out of the heat and into an air-conditioned space or shade.
  2. Begin cooling them down with cool (NOT ice-cold) water.
    Drape wet towels over their body, focusing on the paws, groin, and neck. Using a fan can help.
    Do not use ice water; this can cause shock and hinder the cooling process.
  3. Call for help. Contact Oz Animal Hospital or the nearest emergency veterinarian immediately! Let us know you are on your way with a suspected heatstroke case so we can prepare.

Even if your pet seems to be recovering, they need immediate veterinary evaluation to check for internal organ damage!

Beyond Cars: Other Summer Stressors

  • Hot Pavement: Chicago asphalt and sidewalks can get hot enough to burn your dog’s paw pads. If it’s too hot for your bare hand, it’s too hot for their paws. Walk during cooler parts of the day.
  • Over-Exertion: Be mindful of humidity. On hot, humid days, limit strenuous exercise like long games of fetch or running.
  • A Note on Cats: While less likely to be jogging with you, cats are also at risk! They can suffer heatstroke if left in unventilated rooms or garages or if they lack access to cool water and shade. Cats often hide when they feel unwell, so be vigilant!

Heatstroke is serious, but with the proper foresight, it is entirely avoidable. Knowing the signs and how to respond can be the difference between life and death! And if you ever suspect your pet is suffering from the heat, get in touch right away.

At Oz Animal Hospital, we’re dedicated to providing top-tier veterinary care that goes beyond traditional standards. Our team takes the time to understand your pet’s lifestyle, habits, and medical history to provide tailored recommendations for vaccines, preventative care, and treatment options. Choose Oz Animal Hospital for exceptional veterinary care that prioritizes your pet’s well-being and peace of mind! To schedule your appointment, contact us today.