June 11, 1999
Some like it hot, some don't
By Sara Eaton
Staff Writer
Keeping cool in the summer heat wave can be quite a task.
Anyone with respiratory problems, renal disease or cardiovascular problems is at high risk for complications during extremely hot weather.
Diann Ward, director of nursing at St. Catherine's Care Center of Tiffin, explained that the body's electrolyte balance can be changed, which in turn raises the core body temperature.
When the core body temperature is raised, heat exhaustion or heat stroke are possible outcomes, she said.
Ward recommends drinking extra fluids to keep hydrated.
"Water is the best. Avoid pop. Drink fruit juices or Gatoraid to replenish yourself and keep hydrated," she said.
Staying out of direct sunlight as much as possible, wearing loose-fitting clothes and using fans or air conditioners safely to keep comfortable were also Ward's recommendations.
She said there have not been any cases yet at the center. She explained that the staff tries to keep everyone inside because it is air conditioned.
Not only are humans prone to heat-related health risks, but pets are as well.
According to Roy S. Zinn, veterinary doctor at Edenwood Veterinary Clinic, 4766 S. SR 231, it is very easy for animals, especially outdoor animals, to be hit with heat exhaustion.
Not only is it important to make sure the animal has adequate water, which can be reached at any time, but also for the animal to have shade, he said.
"This is key for any dog, cat, rabbit or any animal," Zinn said. He explained that animals need more water than humans because they do not sweat it out, but pant it out as well as evaporation from the tongue.
He recommends outdoor animals be allowed in the garage or basement for a time to cool down a bit.
Zinn said leaving a pet waiting in a car while running errands is very dangerous, even with the window cracked.
"It's very easy for a dog to get overheated very quickly," he said, explaining that, even with a window or two cracked, cars can reach temperatures of 125 to 150 degrees in 10 minutes or less.
When exercising with pets, Zinn recommended to do it in the early morning or in the evening, when it is cooler.
Although Zinn said a pet owner could consider trimming their pet because it would help draw heat out of their body quicker, he showed a bit of concern.
"[The pet] runs the risk of sunburn," Zinn said, explaining that long-haired animals have a lighter color pigment because of the hair.
While he said the clinic sees heat exhaustion cases every year, they have yet to see any this year. However, Zinn is sure the clinic will see some during the season.
Keeping cool while having fun in the sun may not always be easy, however there a few tips to follow.
How to notice heat exhaustion in pets
- Excessive and continuous panting
- Brightly colored tongue (more red than usual)
- Anxious looks (in eyes or emotions)
- A body heat of 105 degrees or higher (can usually tell by feeling animal with hands)
- In case of heat exhaustion:
- Cool the pet down any way possible
- hose the animal down
- sit the animal under a fan
- give the animal a cool bath
- Call the veterinary ASAP
Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Headaches
- Cold, clammy skin
- Confusion
- Disorientation
- Faintness
- Shallow breathing
- High oral temperature (over 102 degrees)
- High heart rate (over 100 beats per minute)