A Guide to Preventing Heat Stroke in Pets While Traveling

Pets are family members. Taking pets on vacation during the summer poses special problems. Small animals are extremely susceptible to heat related illnesses. Protecting pets from the heat while traveling is important for their health and well-being.

In the Car

Cars can be a death trap for pets in the summer months. The interior of a car sitting in the sun can reach temperatures of over 120 degrees in just a few minutes. Cracking the windows open will not help to cool the interior properly. Never leave pets in a car during the summer. Pets can develop heat stroke within 20 minutes once the temperatures exceed 100 degrees.

When traveling in the car, make sure your pet has access to water. Travel bowls are inexpensive and fold up small enough to fit in a glove compartment. Keep bottled water with you. Make frequent stops for your pet to get a drink and for dogs to take a "bathroom" break.

In a Camper

When camping with your pet, heat issues arise. Many campers and RVs have air-conditioning but this can be expensive to run. Always leave the air-conditioning running -- even on low -- if your pets are alone in the camper. Campers without air-conditioning or fans get too hot for pets. Keep them safe and run the cooling system if you have to leave them unattended for a while.

Tent Camping with Pets

Unlike other pets, dogs can go tent camping if they are well trained. If you are primitive camping, take it slow during hot weather. Dogs only sweat through the pads on their paws. Panting is the most efficient way for dogs to cool themselves.

Long strenuous hikes in hot weather are dangerous for dogs. Bring plenty of water for your pet and take lots of breaks. Special vests are available for dogs to allow them to carry their own water and bowls. Do most of the hiking during the early morning, break for lunch in a shady place, and head out again after the heat of the day (usually around 3 pm). If shade is not available, create some by setting up your tent.

It is important to acclimate your dog to hot weather before heading out into the wilderness. Start with short hikes and gradually build up to the distance you plan to travel.

Know the Danger Signs

Heat stroke is a serious condition that will kill your pet if they cannot cool down quickly. Before setting out on a summer vacation with your pet, know the warning signs of heat related illnesses:

Excessive panting

Hyperventilating (deep rapid breathing)

Confusion

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Bloody vomit or stools

Pale or gray gums

Listlessness

Excessive salivation and drooling

Very shallow breathing

Collapse

Seizures

If any of the above symptoms occur, use cool or room temperature water to cool your pet down by pouring it over their head and neck. Ice packs can be placed in the armpits and along the neck. Once your pet's condition starts to improve, get them to a veterinarian immediately to prevent further complications.

Use common sense when traveling with pets during the summer. Avoid travel during heat advisories and keep plenty of water available. Limiting travel to morning and evening hours keeps pets and family members cool and comfortable. Keep your pets safe when traveling this summer by following this guide.

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