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FOUR SEASONS BREEZE | AUGUST 2020 15 Summer is almost over but keeping pets comfortable in the heat should always be a primary concern in Southern California. Dogs and cats release body heat differently than humans. It may bother you when you see your dog hot and panting, but this is the way he sweats and releases heat. They also sweat through the pads of their feet. If you are sweating and your dog is panting, you are both doing the same thing! Both of you should get a drink of water, relax, and cool down! We all want to get our pets out for their long walks but be aware that heat exhaustion can happen very quickly in this weather. The first symptoms are excessive panting, drooling, racing heartbeat, red gums, and foaming at the mouth. If you feel your pet is in heat stress it is best to get him to cool him down and call the veterinarian as soon as possible. On hot days try to keep the long walks in the cooler mornings and evenings. Be aware that concrete and asphalt will heat up faster and hotter than air temperature and can cause serious burns to your pets' paws. Hold the back of your hand on the sidewalk or street. If you cannot hold it there comfortably for five seconds, it's too hot for your dog. Many pet owners believe that clipping their pet's hair will aid in keeping them cooler for the summer, but that is simply not true. A dog's coat is a natural protection. Short-haired dogs generally can suffer heat exhaustion quicker than longer-coated breeds. You don't remove the insulation from your house in the warmer weather, and you want to reconsider doing that to your pets. Last, but certainly not least, we hear of the sad fate of children locked in hot, closed cars, but let's not forget about our four-legged friends. Just because your car window is cracked open doesn't mean that it is safe. Even with outdoor temperatures at a fairly comfortable 80 degrees, the closed car can reach over 100 degrees in as little as 10 minutes! Many of our dogs love an outing and I know my four-legged kid looks forward to "going for a ride" every time I put on shoes or reach for the keys. If you are going somewhere where your pet is not welcome (grocery store or restaurant) it may be better to leave your pal at home. See you on the trails!