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Humidity May Be Deadlier For Pets Than Heat

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Jun 13, 2009 6:51 pm US/Eastern

Humidity May Be Deadlier For Pets Than Heat

Reporting
Ron Matz
BALTIMORE (WJZ) ― If you're a dog owner, you may not realize this but high humidity may be deadlier than the heat for your pet.  Two dogs, both 13, died in Baltimore this week.  Ron Matz reports veterinarians are warning that even before the heat of summer begins, the humidity can take your dog's life.

It's a nice day to walk your dog.  Judy Kiser is out with hers, aware the humidity and not the heat can put your pet in danger.

"The humidity is what really bothers them.  My dogs are panting already and it's not that warm out here yet," she said.  "I try to get my dogs out early in the morning or late in the evenings where it's a little bit cooler."

Veterinarians are warning dog owners to pay attention to the real feel, that combination of heat and humidity.

"People think that's just due to the heat but believe it or not, it's actually what we call the heat index or the real feel, it's the humidity plus the heat," said Dr. Paul Fox, Mt. Carmel Animal Hospital.  "For instance, if you have an upper 70 degree day and it's 90% humidity, these dogs are going to have issues.  They're not going to be able to dissipate or get rid of that heat."

Two dogs, both 13, died of heat stroke in Baltimore on Monday.  Although it was only 84 degrees that day, the humidity was very high.

"Later on in the summer, it's actually less of an issue than these early months that is a low 80 degree day with lots of humidity.  It takes a dog's body by surprise and they can't handle it and that's when the trouble begins," Fox said.

"We're miserable out here and they're wearing fur coats so they've got to be pretty uncomfortable," said Jennifer Mills.  "If we're going to be out for a while, we bring water with us and try to give them time in the shade.  We pay attention to them and they will tell you when they're really tired."

Heatstroke can occur because of a dog's limited cooling abilitity.  The humidity can be as deadly as the heat.  Older dogs are more vulnerable; water and shade are not enough.

If you suspect heatstroke, immediately apply cool water and take your dog to the vet or emergency room as quickly as you can.

"The older dogs, the obese and the informed, you have to be very careful and take extra precautions to keep them inside and away from the heat," Fox said.  "Once these dogs go into heatstroke, even with aggressive treatment, you're only looking at about a 50% survival rate."

Veterinarians say take no risks.  If you are using air conditioning to cool your home, then your dog should be inside and not outside.

(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

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