As the weather changes, so do your pet’s needs. If he’s not taken proper care of, he’s also at risk of several diseases. Here’s how to keep him healthy and happy despite rising temperatures.
Some conditions which you need to protect your pet from:
Heat strokes: They occur when your pet’s body temperature becomes so high (above 106F) that its body’s normal cooling mechanisms are over whelmed. Those at risk are:
1. puppies up to six months of age
2. Geriatric pets (large breeds over seven years of age and small breeds over 12 years of age)
3. Overweight pets
4. Pets who are over exercised
5. Pets who’re ill (fever, dehydration or heart disease)or on certain medication
6. Brach cephalic breeds – bulldogs, pugs, sharpies and long-coated dogs.

Common signs of heat stroke:
Exercise panting, noisy breathing, bright red mucus membranes, weakness, collapse, seizure, coma and high body temperature. If you see any of these signs, immediately pour cold water over your pet and take him to a cool place. Consult a vet.

To prevent heat strokes:
1. Keep your pet indoors during midday in an air conditioned room, or in a well-ventilated area.
2. Never leave your pet alone in the car, even with the windows down.
3. A good groomer can clip your dog’s coat\ to a comfortable few inches so that he can dissipate the heat easily.
Never shave the pet down to the skin he’ll be an easy target for sunburns.