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6 SOLERA DIAMOND VALLEY | AUGUST 2021 By Clare Mendez, Resident We love our pets. We want to take them for long walks, bring them in the car with us, and have them at our sides when we are in the yard. Pet owners, beware not to over-do it with your pet when it is hot outside as they can get dehydrated more easily (due to their size) than you might realize. Be sure to have plenty of cool water available for them and shade. Dogs, in particular, are not as efficient at releasing heat as we are; they are built to conserve rather than release heat and tend to heat up faster than we do. As such we may not be aware of the fact that a dog has become overheated until symptoms suddenly develop. Short nosed breeds like pugs and bulldogs can't pant as effectively to cool down, and dogs with thick fur have trouble dissipating heat. Heat stroke in dogs is a very serious condition and its onset can be sudden. Catching a heat stroke in its early stages can help prevent permanent damage to your dog's internal organs. Some early symptoms include: • Excessive or loud panting • Extreme thirst • Frequent vomiting • Extreme lethargy or unbalanced walking • Thick saliva • Increased heart rate Kitty cats are also in danger of heat stroke and their symptoms are similar to dogs, however they may be more subtle. Cats are also better at seeking out cooler areas when they need to. Be sure they too have plenty of cool water to drink throughout the day. As a reminder, don't leave your pets in a car in the summer. Even with the windows cracked open a bit, the temperature in the car can quickly sky rocket. Show them love by leaving them home. As a reward, you can take them for a nice walk after you get home. You can both benefit from a rest on one of the benches in the shade of the Paseo. We all love seeing your pets, so please help them live a long and comfortable life. Heat Stroke - The Pet Edition By Daniel Mendez, EPAC Chair The average temperature in Hemet for the month of August is 95 degrees. As we all know, occasionally we experience excessive heat warnings where the temps range well over that for extended periods of time. Heat stroke is a severe condition in which the body cannot cool itself via perspiration and, as such, becomes overheated. Symptoms of heatstroke include: a headache, dizziness, fatigue, decreased perspiration, nausea/vomiting, loss of consciousness, difficulty breathing, flushed skin, and muscle cramps or weakness. Some medications can also make you more susceptible to experiencing these heat related symptoms and can be fatal if not treated or controlled promptly. Read all warning labels when starting a new medication or ask your doctor or pharmacist about any health risks related to your medications. If at all possible, try to remain indoors in an air conditioned space when the temperatures outside are at peak hours. If you do go outside, wear loose, light colored clothing that covers your head, arms and legs. Wear sunscreen and drink plenty of fluids. Dehydration and strenuous activity or exertion can trigger heat stroke. If you don't want to drink plain water, try a healthy drink such as green tea. Water infused with fruit and herbs such as mint an also be tasty. Water is good, but replacing electrolytes with Gatorade, Smartwater (or a similar beverage) will replace minerals that help your body needs to carry out vital functions, such as muscle contractions, PH balance and nerve signaling. The most important thing about your water alternative is that it must be alcohol-free. Alcohol dehydrates your body and has several other negative health consequences. If you do feel a bit faint, it is a good idea to take it easy. Use a cool cloth and wipe down your neck, catch your breath, and perhaps call it a day. HEAT STROKE

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