Keep pets cool in summer

With Delhi reeling under intense heat, people of the city should provide special care to their pets in order to keep them hydrated and healthy, the Humane Society International (HSI) said Saturday.

The first and the foremost is a visit to the veterinarian for an early summer check-up and get the pet tested for heartworms. It is of utmost importance to keep the pet free from flea and ticks, the animal protection organisation said.

"Generally, pets do give out a signal if they are overheating like panting, staring, drooling, rapid heartbeat and vomiting etc. In such a condition a vet should be consulted immediately," the HSI said in a statement.

"Animals with flat faces, like Pugs and Persian cats, are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively. They should be kept in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible," it added.

A constant supply of fresh water must be ensured as dogs and cats dehydrate rapidly.

In addition, the exercise for your pet should be light as intense or long periods of working out, even in the shade can result in a heatstroke.

While, it is a common sight to see dogs and cats travelling in a car along with their owners, but HSI warns of leaving pets alone in a parked vehicle even if the windows are open.

"Your car becomes a furnace in the hot weather which can give rise to fatal heatstroke. Besides, it's illegal to keep animals unattended for a long time in parked cars," the HSI said.

Just like humans, a swim in a pool of cool water can calm the pets and bring their body temperatures down. However, not all pets have an affinity for water so they should be introduced to water gradually.

While it is a good idea to trim your pet's hair during summer, they must not be shaved completely as the layers of a coat guard against sunburn.

Humane Society International is an international animal protection organisation working to protect all animals, including animals in laboratories, farm animals, companion animals, and wildlife.