On summer days if you are feeling hot your dog may be feeling hotter. Dogs don’t sweat like we do, so they have to rely on panting, which is not as effective at cooling them down. Heat stroke can happen fast and its effects can be devastating for your pet. That’s why prevention is very important.
Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs:
Rapid panting, sweaty feet, drooling
- Excessive grooming
- Rapid pulse and breathing
- Redness of the tongue and mouth
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Stumbling, staggering gait
- Pacing
If your pet is just starting to show sign of distress from the heat, or if you think your dog is suffering from heat exhaustion or heat stroke, take a few step to start the cooling process. Most important, don’t let efforts to help your pet delay you more than a few moments from getting to the vet, as time is critical for animals suffering heat stroke.
What to do if Your Pet Is Suffering From Heat Stroke:
Move your pet/dog to a cool area
- Offer lots of water to drink
- Wet down the skin with cool water
- Avoid freezing water or ice-these can cause blood vessels to constrict, slowing the cooling process and ice can damage the skin
- Take your dog to the veterinarian immediately
