According to recent reports, parts of the United Arab Emirates and Iran experienced a heat index – a measurement that factors in humidity as well as temperature that soared to 60 degrees Celsius in July. The slightly higher than average summer temperatures has already had residents’ tongues wagging, however one is not to forget our furry four-legged friends – our pets. If the correct measures are not taken, the region may experience a surge in heat-related illnesses in the region for humans and animals alike.
Over the years the HVAC industry has been picking up speed and the market is expected to generate over $16.23 billion in value by 2022, as forecasted by analysts[2]. This has been largely led by not only rising temperatures but by population growth and increase in infrastructural development amongst other factors.
Last year, between May and August 2015 four dogs died and ten more were successfully revived after suffering serious heat-related problems at the hospital. Additionally according to reports, over 30 pets also presented minor climate-related problems. With summer temperatures in the GCC reaching as high as 50°C, Portacool, LLC, the Texas-based global leader in evaporative cooling solutions, is advising families in the region to take special care of their pets and take advantage of evaporative cooling methodologies as a tool.
“You can help protect your pets in many ways. Just like humans, animals can fall victim to heat stress during hot summer months. Unlike us however, they are not able to make the conscious decision to take certain measures. Heat-related problems are among the most common summer ailments for dogs and cats,” said Bob Mangiaforte, Vice President of Sales, Portacool.
Because pets are not able to release heat by sweating the way humans do, heat and humidity can raise your pet’s body temperatures to dangerous levels. As a result every summer animals die from preventable heat stroke. Here are a few simple ways to ensure your animals stay cool and healthy when temperatures rise:
If your pet becomes overly lethargic, vomits or has a dazed expression, act immediately
Walk and let out your pet to play in the early morning and after the sun has set
Make shade is provided along with plenty of drinking water
Ice packs or cool wet towels should be placed near the animal’s head and neck
Transport the animal to the nearest vet in an air-conditioned car
Never leave your animal alone in a car or tied up in direct sunlight
“Traditional air-conditioning might be cost prohibitive and not effective outdoors. Therefore if your pets are enclosed in an outdoor area, evaporative cooling will offer you the best alternative,” commented Mangiaforte.