Summer Safety For Your Dog
Summer is in full swing, and with that comes needing to keep our pets safe in the heat. Summer is a great time to be outdoors and to have fun with friends, family, and our dogs. It also means we need to be more vigilant for signs of heat stress and heat exhaustion. While you may be ready for longer walks in the park, hikes, or bike rides, your pup may not be conditioned or ready for that.
Heat tolerance of dogs is dependent on many things. Size, breed, age, and other underlying conditions. A Pug with a heart condition is definitely not going to be able to take the temperatures that another dog can. Breeds that are more susceptible to heat stroke include all short nose breeds (brachiocephalic) like Boxers, Pugs, and Bulldogs. If your dog snores while they are sleeping, they are more susceptible to having airway problems. Additionally, if your pet has had heat stroke previously, they are at a higher risk of getting it again. Dogs can only cool themselves down by painting, and by sweating through their pads and nose. They should be in a well ventilated room with plenty of cool air on hot days.
What are some of the signs of heat stress?
An anxious expression or staring in the middle distance
Increased panting
Increased thirst
If these go unchecked, your pet may progress into heat exhaustion, as their body temperature continues to rise. Signs of this include:
Heavy panting and raspy breathing
Weakness
Once your pet has progressed to heat exhaustion, it is extremely likely he/she will progress into heat stroke, which is the most severe case of heat illness. Signs and symptoms of heat stroke include:
Open mouth rapid breathing
Bright red/pale gums
Excessive salivation
Vomiting/diarrhea
Seizures
What can you do if you believe your dog has heat stress?
Move them to a shaded spot or even air-conditioned room
Offer easy access to lots of water
Stop all physical activities immediately
Cool your dog by wetting down their body with a hose or bucket
Blow a fan over the damp skin
Obviously if your pup continues to worsen, seek veterinary help immediately! While some may think you should, avoid placing wet towels over their body, as it can actually trap heat, instead of allowing it to escape.
The best way to treat heat stress is avoiding it entirely. How can you do that?
Do not leave them alone in the car, even with the windows open
Avoid excessive exercise on hot and humid days
Stay in the shade
If you do exercise your dog outside, bring along plenty of water and offer it at regular intervals
Talk to your vet about the appropriate exercising level for your pet, and ways to avoid it for your dog's breed, age, and underlying conditions.
