Heat Wave was a very catchy song written by Irving Berlin for the 1933 musical As Thousands Cheer. Let me tell you there's been nothing catchy or fun about the heat wave we've been experiencing the last few days here in Brooklyn.
With sweltering temperatures and unbearable humidity, everyone in our house has been 'laying low'. Even Annie has curtailed her sunbathing activities as well has her regular outdoor turns looking for the cats, squirrels, birds and the possum.
With sweltering temperatures and unbearable humidity, everyone in our house has been 'laying low'. Even Annie has curtailed her sunbathing activities as well has her regular outdoor turns looking for the cats, squirrels, birds and the possum.
This post is to remind everyone to look out for not only yourselves but for young children, the elderly and your pets. If you have elderly neighbors, check on them to see if they need any assistance. Remind the kids to take it easy. Keep the dogs (and cats) in. If your pet has access to a back yard have them use that as an alternative to walking which in this kind of weather is no good for anyone - pet and pet parent alike. Limit backyard activity to 5 to 10 minutes, that's what I do with Annie. Make sure there is always fresh water and shade available for your furry family member. Light meals are a better choice and keep your pet in air conditioning with the rest of the family.
I always made it a habit to wipe Annie and Buddy down with a washcloth soaked in cool water. After wringing the cloth out, I start at the muzzle then work my way across the face, forehead and do the entire body. Both of them loved it. Your pet might not like having his or her face touched with a cloth and that's OK as long as you do the body and if your pet doesn't mind, the top of the head. It's a refreshing break for them.
When dealing with heat and your pet remember if you are uncomfortable they are too. After all you aren't the one with a built-in fur coat. Be vigilant, know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Read up on both conditions in the following link which covers heat related information as it pertains to seniors, children and pets and brace yourselves - summer is upon us!
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