- PET HEALTH HIGHLIGHTS -
Heatstroke ( Hyperthermia ) in Dogs
We ' re all familiar with the warnings and sad stories about dogs having heatstrokes after being left in hot cars in the summer . But it ' s also important to know that they can experience similar repercussions simply by being left out in the heat , or overexerting themselves while walking on an extremely hot day . Failure to recognize that your dog is in heat-related distress can result in serious , possibly even fatal damage , to its brain and other internal organs .
Here are warning signs that your dog could be experiencing dangerous heat-induced health issues :
1 ) Rapid Panting : Some amount of panting is perfectly normal , as that is how dogs regulate their body temperature and stay cool . However , if your dog appears to be panting rapidly , it could mean that its body temperature has risen to dangerous levels . Get your dog out of the heat immediately , either inside a cool house or in a shady area , and be sure he or she has access to fresh water .
2 ) Vomiting / Diarrhea : If vomiting and diarrhea follow an outdoor excursion , it can be the result of dehydration or more serious internal disturbances . Give your dog fresh water and get in touch with your veterinarian to see what he or she recommends .
3 ) Color Changes in the Tongue or Gums : Color changes in the tongue and / or gums can signal a raise in body temperature ; check to make sure they aren ' t becoming a darker , red color . Pale gums can also be a sign of heatstroke , indicating a lack of oxygen . Get in the shade and encourage your dog to drink plenty of cool water . If you suspect he or she could be experiencing oxygen depletion , contact your vet or go to an emergency clinic right away .
4 ) Depression / Lethargy : If your dog seems to be lethargic or off balance , it could be a serious sign of heatstroke , possibly even internal organ damage brought on by excessive heat . This is a serious situation , and your pet needs to be seen by a veterinarian immediately .
5 ) Excessive Drooling : Lots of dogs drool , especially if there is food in sight , but it should be fairly easy to determine whether your pooch is salivating a little more than usual . They do that because it helps dissipate heat better than just panting . If it ' s excessive , though , it could mean he or she is having a tough time cooling down . You can help by soaking your dog with cool ( not cold ) water , concentrating on the head , neck , and areas beneath the front and back legs . 6 ) Unresponsiveness / Coma : If your dog seems to be confused , not obeying commands , or is in a daze or stupor , get to your vet or an emergency clinic . This is a true emergency - don ' t delay getting medical help immediately .
Dogs are in danger of heat-related illnesses when their body temperature rises to over 103 degrees . By the time your dog is showing any of the above symptoms , the situation can be extremely serious . When taking your pup out this summer , be sure to bring along a fresh supply of water for both of you , limit your time in the sun , and seek out shady areas along the way . Plan your exercise for early morning , late afternoon , or evening , and never walk your dog when the temperature is over 85 degrees . Asphalt , or even sand , is just too hot at that temperature for the sensitive pads on your pup ' s paws . Be aware , also , that large , heavy-coated dogs , short-nosed or flat-faced breeds ( such as Bulldogs , Lhasa Apsos , Shih Tzus , Pugs , Pekinese , etc .), or canines with heart and / or respiratory issues are at an elevated risk for heatstroke . Remember - they have a fur coat to contend with , and will likely crave a cool break long before you will ! Have fun , but be safe and keep it short !
Pawsitively Pets -- July 7