When the temps go up, it's time to make some changes to your pets' environment and general care. The heat, and humidity, makes a marked difference in the ability to stay cool (thermoregulated) if you're a mammal or bird, and its the time for reptiles to become more active.
Riding horses: if the humidity and temp combined are over 120, riding becomes stressed. More humidity reduces the ability to cool by evaporation (sweat) and the higher temps make it all the more necessary. Dehydration occurs quicker. Consider the condition of your animal before embarking on any long rides with out water stops. Most average horses will need 20 or more gallons of water every day when the temps are over 90F (32C). Think about using electrolyte solutions and be sure to provide a salt block and shade.
Dogs and cats: don't sweat. Well, they do a little. Sweat glands are located on the pads of the feet. If you are covered in fur and can't sweat much, the body pumps blood to thin-skinned areas such as the ears to help maintain their normal body temp of 101.5F (38.6 C). Cool water and shade MUST be provided for pets that are outdoors. Consider trimming fur for long haired breeds, but don't shave it off to the skin. Fur also is an insulation device and protects skin from sunburn.
Bunnies and guinea pigs cannot tolerate heat well. No matter how much water, if they are left in a sunny area without access to hide or get away, they can die in a few hours. Hang wet bath towels over their cages to provide shade and act as an evaporative cooler. If possible, bring them indoors to where the temps are below 90.
Birds generally like hot weather if they are provided water and/or dust to bathe in. Chickens, pheasants, and outdoor birds need both shade, clean cool water, and dirt or DE to fluff themselves in. This helps keeps bugs off their skin and insulate them from sun rays. Parrots and passerines (finches/canaries) need water to bathe in and drink. Air conditioning can be detrimental to birds, so keep them away from the vents and above 72F (22C).
Reptiles become more active, and will need extra humidity. If they are in your home and the A/C is running, keep them away from the vents and give extra sunshine. They need the extra light to tell their brain that it is time to be active if the temperature doesn't fluctuate indoors like it does outdoors. Extra feedings can help them prepare for their winter metabolism.
Dont forget insect control. Flies and mosquitoes are happiest in hot weather, and carry all sorts of pathogens, many of them deadly (Parvo and West Nile come to mind). Keep water fresh - no standing more than 24 hours. Keep pet waste cleaned up every 24 hours to prevent outbreaks of flies. If you will be on holiday, have someone look after your pets (preferably a professional pet sitter) to make sure they are visited at least daily to check and clean water and see that they are not developing any heat related medical conditions.
If you're in Las Vegas, you can visit our website for more tips and how to contact us for pet sitting services. www.allpetscs.com
