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Special to Southwest Senior
|  The summer weather in Texas can become almost unbearable. It’s the kind of heat that makes you realize how difficult it would be to survive without air conditioning. Us Texans may complain about the intense summer heat, but we probably won’t suffer near as much as animals that spend more time outdoors. The hot and humid weather can create miserable circumstances, especially for long-haired pets.
“Dogs that are bred in cooler temperatures can develop problems because of this heat,” said Dr. Mark Stickney, clinical assistant professor at Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. “For example, the heat makes it difficult for the dog to pant, which allows them to cool themselves down. Long hair also makes finding and removing ticks more difficult. With short hair, the ticks are much more easily recognizable.”
With summer, also comes mosquitoes.
“It is a myth that long-haired animals get bit by mosquitoes less than short-haired animals,” Stickney said.
If your animals are going to be outside this summer there are some things to take into consideration. Here are some tips to follow:
•Create shade. Make sure all animals have access to fresh water (cold if possible) and some form of shade. The shade is necessary to help prevent sunburns, hot spots, and blistering on the bottom of more sensitive doggie paws.
•Apply sunblock. If you have a dog that is not usually outside, or is going to be outside for an extended period of time, sunscreen is an option to consider. There are sunscreens made specifically for dogs and can be applied to areas with less hair such as the nose, ears, and belly.
•Take breaks. Dogs can have heat exhaustion and heat strokes just like people. Owners should encourage high-energy dogs to take breaks when playing out in the sun.
•Don’t overdo it. People who exercise with their dogs either with a bike or by jogging should keep in mind that dogs (especially smaller breeds) need to be conditioned to work up their stamina. So be mindful of Sparky’s capabilities before dragging him along on that three-mile bike ride.
•Test the waters. Owners will sometimes make the mistake of grabbing a hose that has been lying out in the sun to spray down animals such as horses or dogs; the hot water that has been sitting in the hose can scald them before the cooler water comes through.
•Brush your cat. If you allow your cats to go outside, mattes and/or hairballs in long-haired cats can be managed by brushing them daily to help keep them clean.
Some people prefer the look of their cat when shaved, which is perfectly fine.
However, there is no medical need to shave your cat unless they are having problems with these things.
•Get shaving advice. Veterinarians hold different opinions on when or if to shave your pets depending on the region. Some might argue that long hair on certain breeds will work as a cooling mechanism.
If your dog seems exhausted and overheated, ask your local veterinarian if shaving could be an option for you and your pet.
By keeping an eye on your pet and exercising caution when exercising and cooling your pet off, the dog days of summer will be more enjoyable for everyone.
Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences,Texas A&M University.
Comments or questions about this story? E-mail swsenior@elpasoinc.com
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