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No, not the staple at backyard barbecues. We’re talking about our furry friends, especially breeds more susceptible to heat-related issues.
Fox News reached out to Whitney Miller, Petco’s chief veterinarian, to ask which breeds have a hard time keeping their cool during the dog days of summer and how to help protect them when the sun is blazing.
Miller said dogs with long, thick coats — like chow chows, golden retrievers and huskies — are more susceptible to heat stroke along with brachycephalic breeds like shih tzus, boxers, bulldogs, pugs and Boston terriers, which typically have flat faces and narrower airways.
Pet owners also need to keep a close eye on puppies as well as senior and overweight dogs, Miller said.
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“While the above breeds and factors make some dogs more susceptible to heatstroke, any pet can suffer from heat-related illness,” Miller told Fox News.
The San Antonio, Texas-based vet said in addition to fur, a dog’s paw pads also make them vulnerable to heat-related issues.
“Dogs have sweat glands mainly in their paw pads,” she told Fox News, “so (their) primary way to cool themselves down is by panting … The brachycephalic airway impacts airflow, (so) they are unable to cool themselves down effectively in even mild heat.”
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Miller said owners should ensure dogs has access to clean, cool drinking water and shade, and to never leave a dog in a hot car or outside for a “long period of time.” She also suggested adjusting walking schedules to avoid the peak midday heat.
Warning signs for overheating include panting, drooling, deep and rapid breathing, weakness, disorientation and vomiting, she said.
“If your pets are exhibiting these symptoms on a hot day, bring them into a cool, well-ventilated area and give them cool (not cold) water,” she told Fox News, adding owners should take their dog to a veterinarian if they can’t reduce their temperature.
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