Even four-legged friends need heat-free: Animal rights activists and veterinarians give tips

Created: 08/03/2022, 06:02

By: Raphael Scherer

A good idea when it's hot: Veterinarians advise letting the dog play in the water to cool off.

© DPA

High temperatures and persistent sunshine: Animal lovers have to keep a few things in mind in summer.

Experts explain how to use it correctly.

District – If you start sweating at the highest summer temperatures, a drink, shade and rest will help.

Most pets, on the other hand, can't even sweat: "They lie around and suffer when it's too hot in the sun," says Evelyn Bauer, head of the Ebersberg Animal Welfare Association.

Although animal rights activists regularly inform people to also think of their four-legged friends in the heat, the message still doesn't seem to have reached all mums and dads.

According to the Ebersberg police, there were five reports this year in which dogs had to be freed from hot vehicles.

Dogs can suffer circulatory collapse in the heat

But the number of negligent dog owners seems to be declining.

The Poinger police are not aware of any case.

Bauer has not heard of any incident from the animal protection association in 2022 either.

"That's surprisingly little, there's usually a message from time to time," she says, adding with a hopeful look: "Perhaps people will become more reasonable."

In Rebecca Spiecker's veterinary practice in Markt Schwaben, too, things have been rather quiet in terms of heat-related symptoms: "Thank God we haven't had any emergencies this summer," she explains.

So far she has only had to treat one dog that had suffered a mild circulatory collapse while walking.

"They then collapse, can no longer walk and pant all the time," she describes the alarm situation.

Older animals in particular are at risk of heart problems at high temperatures.

It is best to go for a walk in the morning and in the evening

The experts agree on their advice on how to deal with four-legged friends in midsummer: It is best to walk the dog in the morning and in the evening instead of during the hot midday temperatures.

In addition, nobody should let the dog walk next to them when cycling in summer temperatures.

"They can't protect themselves," explains Bauer, but because of the leash they have to keep up with their master - whether they want to and can or not.

Bauer believes it's a good idea to point out to cyclists that this isn't good for the animal, even if you're usually made a fool of, as she's experienced on several occasions.

Playing in the water is never wrong

Cat owners have it a little easier: "A cat knows for itself where it's best to go," explains Bauer.

Whether inside or outside, these four-legged friends crawl into the coolest possible place when it is hot.

"Cats are originally desert animals anyway, they know when they need to cool off," agrees her veterinarian Spiecker.

Small animals in cages, such as hamsters or guinea pigs, should also be checked regularly to ensure that the cage is in the cool shade.

In an emergency, a damp towel will help.

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Second important aspect in heat: water.

Because animals also dry out faster in summer and are thirsty.

Just like with humans, ice-cold water is not ideal for animals either, room temperature would be better for the circulation, according to the head of the animal protection association.

Letting the dog play in the water when going for a walk, for example, is never wrong.

"And also put several bowls in the garden with water for birds and hedgehogs," Bauer asks all district citizens.

The flat flower coasters are particularly suitable for this.

In the event of heat stroke, go to the clinic

If, despite all caution, the pet suffers a heat stroke, according to veterinarian Spiecker, it should be taken to the nearest veterinary clinic as quickly as possible.

"And somehow try to cool it down with cold blankets and wet towels or gently pour water on your feet and tongue." And if the dog does go in the car: turn on the air conditioning.

You can find more current news from the district of Ebersberg at Merkur.de/Ebersberg.