Heat Stress Articles / Current Pet News Posted by Dr. Peay on Aug 16, 2002 - 10:03 AM Along with lots of sunshine, the hot weather can make anyone feel uncomfortable, especially your pet. Any pet can suffer from heat stress, but the following pets are more susceptible: Very young and old pets Pets with a previous history of heat stress Overweight pets Pets with cardiovascular or respiratory disorders You can help prevent heat stress by: Always making sure your pet has access to fresh water Never leaving pets in parked vehicles Providing adequate ventilation and air circulation when pets are kept in kennels Providing access to a shaded area if your pets stays out during the day Avoiding strenuous exercise of pets during hot weather Symptoms of Heat Stress include: Excessive panting and salivation Vomiting, anxious or staring expression High body temperature Fast pulse rate Muscle weakness or collapse If your pet has heat stress try to reduce his temperature by gradually immersing your pet in cool water, spraying him with cool water or applying ice packs to his head and neck. While you are cooling your pet down contact your veterinarian. Then take your pet to your veterinarian immediately! This article is from Peay Animal Hospital Inc.   http://www.drpeay.com/ The URL for this story is:   http://www.drpeay.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=10