We are in the middle of summer here in the CSRA where daily high temperatures can easily rise to 100 degrees or higher. Just thinking about such temperatures can make you sweat, but how do animals that cannot sweat cope with these high temperatures? Would you be able to spot the signs of your pet getting over heated?
Many people enjoy spending time outdoors and getting some sun during the summer months with their families and pets. While many people know how to prevent overheating for themselves, they may not be aware of how to help their pets. Dogs, unlike humans, do not sweat through their skin; instead, they cool off by panting and perspire through the pads on their feet. When running and playing in hot weather, dogs cannot get rid of excess heat quickly which leads to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Short nosed dog breeds, like bulldogs and boxers, are more heat- intolerant than other breeds of dogs and can develop heat stroke extremely quickly (that’s why UGA has ice bags to lay on). While outdoors, it is important to provide plenty of fresh, cool water and a shady spot to help your pooch cool down.
With many families on the go during the summer, people often take their furry family member along for the ride. Another danger to pets is being left in an unattended parked vehicle. According to Dr. Ernie Ward states that even with an outdoor temperature of 85 degrees and leaving all of the windows down, the inside temperature of a vehicle parked in the sun can get up to 102 degrees in about 10 minutes. With outside temperatures in the 90 to 100 degree range, pets in parked vehicles are at great risk of quickly developing heat stroke. Because of the danger of heat stroke, never leave your pet in a parked car no matter how brief the errand. It is best to leave your pet safely at home.
It is a good idea during the summer to keep an eye on your pet. If you pet exhibits any of the following signs, contact your veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately; the signs of heat stroke are: increased panting, bright red gums, increased salivation, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, unsteadiness when walking, sudden collapse, and possible seizure. Another way of detecting possible heat stroke is to check your pet’s body temperature using the thermometer from your pet emergency kit. A dog’s normal temperature is between 101.5 and 102.5 degrees. In heat stroke situation, the internal temperature can rise to 104 or higher. If your pet is exhibiting any of these signs, please rush them to your veterinarian immediately. Heat stroke can quickly damage vital organs and can cause micro- clotting of the blood; if left untreated, heatstroke is fatal.
There are simple ways to keep your pooch cool this summer and avoid heatstroke. If your dog likes water, you can buy a plastic kiddy pool or a sprinkler for your pet (and children) to have some fun playing outside. Also, you can make a huge Ice ball with different toys placed inside; your dog will have fun chewing and playing with the ice with the added bonus of a reward. Another option is to drop your dog off at doggy day camp while you run errands; they can have fun playing with other dogs in a safe, air-conditioned place.
If you have further questions regarding heat stroke please call Dr. Ashley Wheatley at Greenbrier Veterinary Services.
If you have further questions regarding heat stroke please call Dr. Ashley Wheatley at Greenbrier Veterinary Services.
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