A Temperature/Humidity Tolerance Index for Transporting Beagle Dogs in Hot Weather,
Abstract
Male beagle dogs were subjected to various hot air temperature/humidity combinations in an attempt to develop a safe temperature/humidity index for dogs being transported by aircraft. Only those environments in which all exposed dogs could maintain a rectal temperature less than 108 F during 6 hours of continuous exposure were considered safe. Results from the experiments provided data to formulate an equation used in defining the tolerance index. Increasing the environment's humidity serves as a catalyst in decreasing a dog's tolerance to heat. In order to offset the effects of an increase in air temperature (starting at 85 F with a 90 percent relative humidity), relative humidity would need to be decreased by 4 percent for every 1 F rise in temperature. Changes in rectal temperature and behavior (barking and excessive movement) in relation to the exposure environment are presented and discussed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA190948
Entities
People
- Gerald D. Hanneman
- James L. Sershon
Organizations
- Federal Aviation Administration