When temperatures spike, most people know to watch for signs of heat sickness in children and other human companions. But man’s best friend is also at risk. While any dog can experience heat stroke, dogs with health problems and those on medication are often at higher risk. Older dogs in general, puppies, obese dogs, and dogs with thick coats also fall into this category. In addition, breeds of dogs with “pushed in” faces, like pugs and bulldogs, also have a higher risk factor for heat stroke.
Signs that your dog is suffering from heat stroke are easy to recognize, and any one of them requires your immediate attention. Protect your pet with these tips from Leith Acura of Cary.
Signs of Heat Stroke
Because your dog only has sweat glands on his nose and the pads of his feet, panting is the only way he can cool off his body. In addition to heavy panting, other signs that your dog is suffering from heat stroke usually begin with mild symptoms that can escalate to severe if he displays the following:
- Elevated body temperature over 103 degrees Fahrenheit
- Increased heart rate
- Agitated state
- Gums and tongue color changes to dark red or purple
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea, sometimes with blood
- Muscle cramping
- Seizures
- Inability to stand up or loss of balance
- Disoriented state
- Loss of consciousness
If your dog presents any of the more serious signs of heat stroke, rush him to your veterinarian immediately. Failure to act quickly may result in irreversible brain damage or death.
For milder symptoms you can move your dog inside to a cooler location, preferably with air conditioning. If he appears unsteady on his feet, cool him down by using cool (not cold) water in a tub, shower, or garden hose, if necessary. Proceed slowly to prevent shock.
Help Prevent Heat Stroke
By using a little common sense and increasing your awareness that you dog’s body works differently than yours, you can prevent heat stroke and maintain your pup’s good health. Avoid the following situations during hot weather:
- Alone in a car, even with windows partially open
- On a cement surface (especially when active) without shade
- Insufficient cool water source when left outside
- Enclosed in a crate without plenty of ventilation
- Muzzling, especially when placed under a drying machine at the groomer
- Overworking or exercising your dog
- Special care should be given to dogs with an airway disease that impairs breathing
Now that you understand the telltale signs of canine heat stroke, you can better plan your dog’s activities during hot weather. Doing so not only protects his good health, but it also shows him how much you love him by helping him to feel as comfortable as possible.
