Pet Care Club

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Beware the Dangers of Dog Heat Stroke

When summer comes around, many people move their activities outdoors.  Pets, especially dogs, are often included in this transition.  It is vital at this point to become aware that dog heat stroke is a real danger for your furry friend. 

What is dog heat stroke?  Just like humans, a dog’s internal body temperature can rise or fall.  Unlike humans, who sweat to help lower their internal body temperature, dogs do not sweat.  Panting is the only method they have available to them when they are overheated and this is not always effective.  Dog heat stroke occurs when a dog’s internal body temperature becomes too high and internal organs become damaged.  If this happens, you could lose your dog.

Factors that can increase the chances of dog heat stroke include leaving a dog in a closed car, not having enough water available and not providing shade.  Obese dogs and older dogs are also more susceptible to dog heat stroke.  When considering having your dogs join the outdoors family activities, take into consideration the causes of dog heat stroke and make sure you provide means of counter-acting these factors.

Knowing the signs of dog heat stroke is essential.  A dog will pant rapidly and his eyes will be open wide.  He may be weak and stagger when he tries to walk.  Having a thermometer handy is a good idea.  If your dog’s temperature is 106 degrees or above get him to the nearest pet hospital immediately for treatment.  The longer his temperature remains this high, the more damage the dog heat stroke will do. The brain, liver and intestines are at greatest risk of damage.  Keep in mind that the pads of a dog’s feet are very sensitive to heat and cold.  The cold can be counter-acted with a set of Muttluks, but the heat will best be avoided by keeping your dog on a grassy area, away from scorching pavement and sand.

If you can’t get to a pet hospital right away, try bringing your dog’s body temperature down to counteract the dog heat stroke.  Take him indoors and run a tub of cool water to put him in.  Make sure the water actually soaks into his skin and, if possible, have him drink a bit of cold water to cool his tongue.  Do not give him too much to drink at first, as he may not be able to keep it down.  Ice cubes work well in this case.  Once your dog’s temperature is lowered to 103 degrees, you can remove him from the water.  Call your vet and follow his or her directions from there.

Some things you can do to avert dog heat stroke is consider leaving your dog inside with air conditioning when the temperature or humidity is high.  Do not lever leave him in a car alone, even for a few minutes.  Dog heat stroke can occur in less than ten minutes in a closed car.  It is not worth taking the chance.  If your dog is outside with you, try to keep him in a shaded area and have plenty of water for him to drink.  If you have a yard sprinkler system, leave it on and make sure the dog has access to it.  Most of all, watch for any of the early signs of dog heat stroke and take immediate action.  Doing so will help ensure your furry friend is around to enjoy the winter activities when they arrive.

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