Dogs become affected by heat stroke when they are not able to reduce their temperature from panting or replacing fluids quick enough into their bodies. Dogs who are obese, very old, very young, have thick coats or have airway abnormalities – such as flat-faced breeds – are most likely to experience heat stroke. However, all dogs can overheat if exposed to hot temperatures, lack of drinking water and if in an area that is not well ventilated – such as being left in a car.
5 Signs to Look Out For
- Is your dog excessively heavy panting?
- Do they look drowsy, uncoordinated or lethargic?
- Are they drooling a worrying amount?
- Has your dog collapsed?
- Has your dog vomited?
Heat stroke takes effect rapidly and needs to be treated quickly; otherwise, it could result in death as heat stroke causes many unseen internal issues.
9 Cool Tips To Keep Your Dog Healthy
- Avoid long car journeys
- Spray your dog with cool water
- Keep up a constant supply of water
- Make sure there are shaded areas for your pet to stay out of the heat
- Limit exercise and long runs on hot days
- Take water with you on walks
- Change your walking times to early mornings or later afternoons when the day is at its coolest
- NEVER leave your dog in a parked car on a hot day; even with the windows down, it can become as hot as an oven within an hour. If you see a dog in a car distressed call 999 immediately.
- DON’T leave your dog in a hot room without an exit
If you’re worried that your dog might be suffering from heat stroke you should call your vet and sit your dog in a cool faded place. Heat stroke takes effect rapidly and needs to be treated quickly; otherwise, it could result in death. Give your pet small amounts of cool water and try to cool your dog’s body with cool but not cold water – this can be done with damp-wet towels – or place the dog near a fan.
Reference Material:
https://www.vets-now.com/pet-care-advice/heatstroke-in-dogs/
https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/dogsinhotcars/heatstroke
https://www.petmd.com/dog/emergency/common-emergencies/e_dg_heat_stroke#
