|
|
Preventing Heat Exhaustion in Your Dog
Dogs are especially at risk for heat exhaustion as they don't perspire, as humans do, to dissipate heat. Dogs primary way of trying to lower their body temperature is through panting.
What are the dangers? "This boy is pleading with you to get him some shade and a drink of water"
- Once a dog has heat stroke, they are predisposed to heat stroke
- Heat stroke can lead to death
- Older dogs, obese dogs and brachycephalic breeds (flat nosed like Pugs and Boston Terriers) are especially at risk
- Hot, humid days are especially dangerous for your pet
Signs and Symptoms
- Intense thirst
- Heavy panting
- Rapid heartbeat
- Labored breathing
- Staggering
- Confusion
- Weakness
- Collapse
As the heat exhaustion progresses to heat stroke:
- Vomiting and Diarrhea
- Rectal Temperatures of 105 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit (At approximately 109 degrees, vital organs start to fail)
- and finally seizures and coma
Treatment
- Move your pet to a shady area
- Give your dog water
- Cool the dog with cool water or ice packs and transport to a vet
Prevention
- Be careful on especially hot, humid days; take only short walks, especially if your dog is older, obese, has health problems, or is a brachycephalic (short-nosed) breed
- Don't take your dog on long walks in the hot sun
- On hot days, if your dog starts panting, stop and let him cool down
- Ensure your pet has access to water
- In the summer, never leave your dog in the car, even for short periods of time, temperatures rise rapidly and if you leave the car running, the air conditioning could fail
- If you take your dog to the beach or sporting event, ensure he has access to shade.
Gulliver travels to California and stays mainly in the shade. This little Papillon stayed at home, but he checked the weather out before venturing outside.
Use our free Animal Hospital search service to locate Veterinarians and Animal Clinic.- Veterinarian Services for Cats and Dogs, Emergency Services, Pet Hospitals
|
|
