RICHMOND HEIGHTS, Ohio, July 14, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Richman Animal Clinic recently announced tips to prepare pets for the Cleveland summer heat. According to Richmond Heights veterinarian Dr. Jeffery Richman, simple changes to a pet's daily schedule, such as exercising in the early morning or late evening, can help prevent a summer health emergency. The vet's educational awareness campaign is designed to reduce the number of summer emergency vet visits due to heat exhaustion, heat stroke and dehydration.
Dr. Jeffery Richman, owner of Richman Animal Clinic, is cautioning pet owners about the dangers of summer heat. Dr. Richman recently shared his top pet wellness tips for protecting pets from heat exhaustion and dehydration during the summer months.
Unlike humans, dogs and cats cannot sweat in the same way we do to cool off. Pets rely primarily on panting as a means to cool off in the heat. Consequently, pets are at increased risk for overheating during the hot summer months.
"A short walk or game of fetch during the hot summer months can easily turn deadly for pets," warned Dr. Richman. "Pet owners must be aware at all times of the increased risk for heat stroke and other health problems."
The Richmond Heights veterinarian says pets should only be exercised in the early morning and evening hours; this helps prevent heat exhaustion and dehydration. Pets should also have constant access to cool water throughout the day.
"If a pet owner will be gone for part of the time, I recommend adding ice cubes to the pet's water bowl," said Dr. Richman. "As the ice melts, pets can enjoy constant access to a cool, refreshing drink all day long."
Dr. Richman is also reminding pet owners to never leave their pets inside a parked car. Temperatures inside a parked vehicle can quickly surpass 100 degrees in just a matter of minute. This is true even when the outside air temperature is in the mid-80s and the car's windows are rolled down. Pets' bodies are less efficient at handling high temperatures. Consequently, pets trapped inside a parked vehicle can suffer from heat exhaustion, experience seizures, and may even die.
Even indoor pets need extra attention during the hot summer months, says Dr. Richman. The Richmond Heights veterinarian recommends angling a fan towards the floor so pets benefit from cooling airflow. If pet owners will be gone during the day, closing the blinds and curtains will help keep rooms cooler.
Pet owners should also be vigilant for symptoms of heat stroke. Early warning signs include dark reddish gums, excessive panting, inability to stand up, and thick saliva. Disorientation, seizures and coma require immediate intervention to prevent death.
To learn more summer pet care tips, along with information on general wellness care, pet owners may visit the Richman Animal Clinic's website at http://richmananimalclinic.net/.