With the mercury rising every day here in Qatar we know how very hot it is, but sometimes we forget about how sensitive our pets can be to the heat. Dogs, cats, birds, and many exotic pets like rodents and rabbits can all suffer the effects of getting too hot. An animal can first suffer from heat stress before it has a full blown heat stroke. It is important during the hot summer months that we shorten the amount of time our pets spend outside. This includes walks, playing, and going to the bathroom.

We must never leave a pet in the car with the engine off even for a moment.
The pavement can also get to be blazing hot and this can easily burn the pads of the feet on even a short walk.
Very young and very old animals are at higher risk for heat stress as they have more trouble regulating their own temperature. It is important even inside the home to always have a few bowls of fresh cool water available to our pets all the time. Animals that spend a lot of time in a separate room or building from the home should still have air conditioning, open windows are not enough.
Signs that your pet is too hot may include excessive panting – even to the point of drooling, a fast heart rate, red gums, and collapse. If you think your pet is suffering from overheating it is important to call Qatar Veterinary Center reception immediately and then come in, as this is a life and death emergency.
Just a few minutes left outside can be too long.
Dr. Sam, DVM
& Bandido, QVC Spokeswoof