Heat exhaustion, not just heat stress,  is causing problems with the extended and very hot and dry weather in Qld, NSW, SA and Vic. While most trained pet people can identify heat stress (remember, NO TOWELS!), heat exhaustion can be harder to identify, but just as deadly. Different to heat exhaustion in humans, it happens when there have been multiple days of hot weather PLUS hot nights that do not allow the animal to recover. These animals are often only marginally dehydrated (and you may not notice), but become lethargic, depressed, off food. Often they are found in the morning “dead in their basket” and it’s a particular issue for very young, old, overweight and brachycephalic pets. It’s a particular problem for pet industry business, particularly for pet sitting/minding (where subtle changes may not be noticed if the animal is only seen for short periods daily, or cats held in hothouses for many days at a time;   boarding businesses (where hot facilities may take a while to cool down at night) and grooming salons (where the heat inside the salon can tip an animal “over the edge).

Deal with it by working hard to allow the animal to cool down and sleep soundly overnight –eg by cooling gel bedding, air conditioning, low-energy foods. Minimise exercise in all forms, and keep the animal hydrated by “drink treats” (eg 25% lactose-free milk in water), or “icy poles” (frozen water or frozen “drink treats”. Be very aware of the association between heat exhaustion and lethargy or visible dehydration (gum assessment, for those who have done their Pet First Aid course) and get the animal to the vet as soon as possible if signs are seen – do not wait. Sometimes I/V fluids can be lifesaving, as can rest overnight in an air-conditioned surgery!