Dogs overheating in cars?
As the summer months stretch out before us like a hot, dry, endless vista of parched tongues and sticky fur (wait…that’s just the dogs), it’s important to remember one key thing: your pupper may not be as equipped to handle the heat as you are. In fact, they’re downright delicate little flowers when it comes to staying cool. And nowhere is that more apparent than in a parked car on a hot day.
So buckle up, buttercups – we’re about to dive headfirst into the science behind why cars get so darn steamy and what you can do to make sure your furry friend isn’t left baking like an undercooked biscuit in there.
A Breathless Car
First things first: if you’ve ever stepped inside a car that’s been parked outside for any length of time during July or August, then you know firsthand how quickly things can go from pleasant climate-controlled oasis to Dante’s Inferno-levels of fiery hellishness. But why does this happen?
It all boils down (pun intended) to one simple truth: when sunlight hits something, said thing tends to get pretty dang warm. And since our cars are chock-full of windows that let all those lovely rays inside while keeping any breeze out…well, let’s just say Fido might be saying ‘so long’ sooner rather than later.
But wait! There’s more! As the temperature within the car slowly starts creeping upwards like some kind of thermometer gone mad with power (cue maniacal laughter here,):). This causes another crucial change within its confines – specifically, an increase in humidity levels. That means less fresh air circulating through the space for lucky old Rover which further compounds his symptoms.
Heat Stroke Ain’t No Joke
Now that we’ve established exactly how perilous being left in a hot car can be, let’s talk about what actually happens to your pet when things get too steamy. Heat stroke is no joke – and it can have deadly consequences if not caught early enough.
The first thing you need to understand is that dogs simply aren’t designed with the same body cooling mechanisms as humans (unless they are hairless or have short/snub noses). We sweat buckets from our pores all over our bodies, while Fido either pants furiously or sweats through his paw pads so they’re actively limping around trying reach cool areas like tiles etc since most of their heat emanates from the abdomen area.
So now you’ve got this little doggie who has just spent the last twenty minutes roasting inside a metal box surrounded by glass windows…and he’s panting frantically because that’s literally all he knows how to do! No perspiring for him – just lotsa heavy breathing jokes!
But despite putting on its best woof-woof face, your doggo’s respiratory system isn’t up to dealing with constantly inhaling sweltering air day-after-day. Plus, their circulation systems tend to slow down if overheated which means less Blood flow-carrying oxygen where needed Most turning into organs failure
It won’t take long before Mr Woof starts showing some pretty freakin’ frightening symptoms, including but not limiting to:
- extreme lethargy
- disorientation and decreased levels of consciousness
- bright red gums/eyes indicating dead cells internally due to lack of oxygen.
- seizures/jerking movements/uncontrollable drooling.
What Can You Do?
Okay, so hopefully we’ve scared ya into realizing how serious this issue really is. Enough chitchat – now it’s time for action!
Here are some common sense guidelines and practical tips worth noting:
Don’t leave them unattended.
This might seem obvious after everything we’ve just talked about, but really…don’t leave your dog alone in the car for any length of time. Even if you’re just running into a store quickly or only planning to be gone for five minutes – there’s no excuse! Find a friendly neighbor to help keep an eye on them if necessary.
Take them with you:
This can seem tiring as it means having to lug heavy woollen coats around in certain places but trust me taking dogs out to other quieter areas is not always bad habit-forming and helps too when their fur gets tangled less and this reduces risks of parasites etc.
Alternatively, invest in clip-in fans that will provide cool breeze depending on the owner whenever possible.
Park under shade or cover:
The sun isn’t kind folks, keep them out of its wrath as much as possible. Consider parking near trees panels/canopies/garages/awning etc that offer enough shelter from direct sunlight normally causing up-to fify percent temperature differential difference outside vs Under such roofs during Summer so try finding shady spots instead & give plenty window space access
Ventilate Car Before Or During Entry Times
It may take longer than expected to set things right when dealing with these issues; opening windows frequently at least twice every quarter hour ensures maximum airflow Can circulate which ultimately cools down internal surfaces/systems automatically leading prolonged life-span reduction chances surface burns bed-sheets)
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, I’m sure many pet owners would easily agree that dogs aren’t simply furry accessories they’re companions who rely heavily upon us . We all love Fido – big tail wagging happy fun lads!. It’s our responsibility while owning something so delicate make sure he/she remains safe- healthy-life span are crucial priorities . Please listen very nicely(Pup-puppy eyes)therefore If You Are In Doubt Roll Down The Windows And Keep Them At Shelter ASAP. Rescuing them from a boiling car isn’t glamourous or fun-let’s do the right thing. Till next time folks good luck and woof woof!!