French vet urges pet owners to protect animals during heatwave

Veterinarian Suzy Valentin, based at the HOPia Univet hospital in Guyancourt, warned that pets are especially vulnerable to extreme heat because they cannot sweat. She noted a 10 % rise in heat‑related animal deaths compared with the same period last year.

Valentin recommends keeping pets in cool environments, limiting walks to early morning or late evening, and avoiding hot pavement (temperatures can reach 50‑60 °C). Owners should provide abundant fresh water (not ice‑cold), use shallow water baths, cooling mats, fans, and avoid strenuous activity. Signs of heatstroke include persistent panting, lethargy, pale gums, vomiting, salivation, disorientation or seizures. If a pet’s rectal temperature exceeds 39 °C, cooling measures should be applied, and veterinary care sought promptly when it reaches 39.5 °C.

These measures aim to prevent dehydration and fatal hyperthermia in cats and dogs during the ongoing French heatwave.