Austin Heatwave Deal Heat Strokes, Paw Burns, Heat-Related Injuries to Pets

Numerous pets in Austin have been negatively affected by the extreme heat, and veterinarians in Central Texas reported an increase in the number of animals being treated for heat-related injuries.

Austin Pets Alive! is one of those shelters where injuries are on the rise, with heat strokes and paw burns among the more common injuries.

In her three years as the clinic manager, Jasmine Hernandez claimed that she had never witnessed as many heat-related accidents.

Hernandez claimed that as of July, she had already handled more than 10 cases.

Hernandez noted that the weather has undoubtedly contributed to an increase in cases of pet injuries, with temperatures reaching 105 degrees.

Paw burns and heat strokes are a few of the injuries. Hernandez claimed that one of the dogs she treated eventually passed away after spending too much time in the heat, succumbing to a coma and other severe symptoms.

A few miles away, Bluebonnet Animal Hospital is reporting an increase in injuries brought on by the heat. A veterinary technician named Winston Smith compared the hot concrete to a stovetop.

Smith noted that dogs don't pay as much attention to the road when they are simply enjoying their walk. But their paw pads are getting hot from the hot roads.

Pet Owners' Responsibilities

Hernandez and Smith advised pet owners to always examine their animals' paws after a walk. Additionally, it is advised to cut those outdoor strolls short when the temperature is too high.

Furthermore, Hernandez advised dog owners to bring their pets inside if they notice their animals are excessively drooling, panting a lot, or frequently lying down and not wanting to get up.

These straightforward measures, according to Hernandez and Smith, are essential for a pet's survival during these sweltering summer months.

Nobody wants their pets to pass away, as Smith warned they could do in a matter of minutes.

Spraying rubbing alcohol on scorched paws was suggested by Smith and Hernandez because it dissipates some of the heat. They suggested covering a pet with a damp towel to help them cool off.

Bringing Pets to Lake Destinations

In addition, before bringing their animals to one of Austin's numerous lakes, pet owners are advised to research to determine whether the area's waterways contain toxic blue-green algae.

Over the past few years, several pet deaths have been connected to toxic algae blooms, which can be fatal to animals, KXAN reports.

The Humane Society of the United States advises pet owners to keep their animals cool both inside and out.

Among their suggested solutions are DIY pupsicles for dogs, constant hydration, and a cooling body wrap.

Dr. Sarah Hoggan, the medical director for VCA California Veterinary Specialists in Murrieta, reminds pet owners that during the heat, if pet owners are having a hard time with the ambient heat, it is even harder for the pets, The New York Times noted.

Hoggan also suggested keeping the pets indoors where there is air conditioning or spaces below 80 degrees in the meantime.

If taking a walk outdoors cannot be avoided, it is important to time walks early in the morning when the pavements are cooler and to take the shadiest routes.