SARASOTA, Fla., Aug. 25, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sarasota veterinarians warn pet owners every summer to take proactive steps to keep their pets cool, and avoid heat illnesses, such as heat stroke. The Bee Ridge veterinary clinic remarks that while they see several cases of snake bites, and accidental foreign object ingestion, most of the cases they seem to constantly see each summer involve pets suffering from heat stroke. Sarasota veterinarians say there are simple steps to follow to help keep your pet from overheating this summer.
The veterinary clinic encourages pet owners to monitor their pet's water consumption. Ronni Tudin, who leads the Bee Ridge veterinary Clinic staff along with Dr. Robin Sego, explains, "Keeping track of your pet's water can be a very strong preventive measure against heatstroke, and is a vital part of proper summer pet care." Water that is cool and fresh will allow your pet to maintain proper hydration levels and is one way to help them deal with the hot summer weather. The Veterinarians also warn that pet owners be cautious about the temperature of the water. If your dog or cat has a metal water bowl, make sure to keep it out of the direct sunlight, since the metal can easily heat the water up. Bee Ridge Veterinary Clinic recommends adding small amounts of ice cubes to the water periodically to allow for gradual and constant water cooling.
Sarasota veterinarians at Bee Ridge recommend that pets should stay inside the cool house with these scorching summer temperatures. If for some reason the pet must be outdoors the clinic says it is imperative that there be a shelter that offers the pet shade, and be placed out of the direct sunlight, if possible. While the temperature will still be very high during the summer heat, being out of direct sunlight can do a great deal to prevent heat stroke. When walking your pet, go during the early morning or late afternoon, when the weather has cooled down a bit. Sarasota pet owners are reminded to never leave their pet in their car in the summer heat, no matter how long they are gone for.
Pet owners are advised to seek immediate veterinary medical attention if they believe their pets are suffering from heat stroke. Signs of heat stroke include excessive panting, stupor, possible seizures, dark red tongue and gums, uncoordinated, and rapid or irregular heartbeat. Dr. Tudin says, "Pet owners can try to cool down pets by placing cool, damp towels on their body and paw pads." Although, Dr. Tudin warns pet owners to never try to cool their pets down with cold water or ice packs as this can worsen symptoms.
The Bee Ridge Veterinary Clinic is located in Sarasota, Florida. The veterinary staff services include basic and advanced pet care, and the clinic features an on-site pharmacy. For more information on heat stroke and other heat related illnesses please visit the clinic's website at http://beeridgevet.com/ .
Bee Ridge Veterinary Clinic 888-667-5235
