| High heat, humidity means more care for livestock and pets |
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NASHVILLE, Tenn. — To protect animals from illness or death from the high temperatures and humidity, the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) encourages livestock and pet owners to be aware of heat stress warning signs.
Frequent observation of livestock and possibly a change in feeding and working schedules are necessary during hot days. TDA advises that heavy panting, slobbering, lack of coordination and trembling are signs of heat stress in goats, sheep and cattle.
Owners should consider feeding more at night, and avoid transporting or working livestock in the heat unless completed in the early morning. Consumption of water can increase by 50 percent when animals are exposed to heat, so abundant amounts of accessible, cool drinking water are necessary.
Animals need shade – even if owners use structures, sprinklers or foggers temporarily. Fans may be needed to increase air circulation for animals kept indoors, and owners should try to control flies and other biting insects.
Like livestock, pets need observation, limited exercise, water and shade with high temperatures and humidity. Pets should never be in a vehicle in the heat because of the dangerously rapid pace temperature rises in vehicles.
The temperature determines the intensity and duration a pet should exercise. Early morning or evening hours are encouraged during hot days. Owners of pets with white-colored ears and short-nose animals need to be careful, so pets don’t get skin cancer or burn paws on hot asphalt.
Heat stroke is fatal for pets and exposure to extreme temperatures can cause pets to have symptoms of heat stress or heat stroke: heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, restlessness, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue and unconsciousness.
If owners observe these symptoms, it is necessary to gradually lower the animal’s body temperature and quickly contact the veterinarian.
TDA shares four tips that can save a pet’s life: “Move the animal into the shade or an air-conditioned area, apply ice packs or cold towels to their head, neck and chest or run cool water over them, let them drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice cubes – and consult your veterinarian immediately.” |
| 8/4/2010 |
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