High temperatures were among the protagonists of this summer of 2025. The heat, in addition to causing discomfort and problems for humans, also represents a serious danger for pets: whether they live in an apartment, in a garden, or in the city, dogs and cats are particularly exposed to the risk of heatstroke, especially on the hottest days.

Knowing the warning signs is crucial . Symptoms can vary from animal to animal, but they typically include rapid and labored breathing, excessive salivation, red or bluish gums, vomiting or diarrhea, weakness, difficulty moving, and an increased heart rate. In severe cases, body temperature can easily exceed 40 degrees Celsius, leading to confusion, convulsions, or even loss of consciousness.

In such a situation, first aid is crucial, but you should never rely solely on "do-it-yourself" measures: the first step is to immediately contact your trusted veterinarian. In the meantime, however, you can take steps to lower the animal's temperature by taking it to a cool, shaded place, gently wetting it with cool water in sensitive areas such as the armpits, inner thighs, and paws, or briefly wrapping it in a damp towel. Ventilation—a fan or simply moving air—also helps accelerate heat evaporation.

Prevention remains the best defense. Avoiding the hottest hours of the day, always ensuring fresh water is available, limiting strenuous activity, and being careful around hot surfaces like asphalt and concrete—which can cause burns to paws—are simple but valuable measures to ensure a peaceful summer for our pets.

(Unioneonline/vf)

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