Heat Warning for Dogs!!
Dogs don’t sweat like humans do, so they get hotter faster. they mostly respire through their tongues and paws. As a dog gets hotter, it’s tongue hangs out more so that air can pass over it and cool blood that circulates to the rest of the body. So when you might think it isn’t too hot, your dog will be overheating, potentially leading to life threatening damage.
Dogs with short snouts are more susceptible to heat issues as are younger or older dogs or sick dogs
Prevention of Heat Stroke
Keep your dog cool on hot days
NEVER leave your dog in a vehicle without air controlled ventilation (and be aware that even if you do have a/c it can break down) An open window will not help air flow in a vehicle on a hot day.
DO NOT walk your dog on a hot surface
Avoid excessive exercise. Walk your dog in shaded areas with water or at cooler times of the day. Don’t throw balls or encourage over stimulation of your pet
Make sure your dog has plenty of cold water available to it
If you do have to leave your dog in a vehicle, make sure the air con is on high, park in the shade, visit the dogs at frequent intervals and cover windows to keep the sun out and the cool in
Symptoms of Heat Stroke
- Panting
- Dehydration
- Excessive Drooling
- Increased Body Temperature
- Little or No Urine
- Sudden Kidney Failure
- Rapid Heart Rate
- Irregular Heart Beat
- Blood Clotting Disorders
- Small Pinpoint Areas of Bleeding
- Changes in Mental Status
- Muscle Tremors
- Wobbly, Uncoordinated or Drunken Walking
- Unconsciousness
- Shock
- Heart and Breathing Stop
What to do if your dog has Heat Stroke
Lower the dog’s temperature slowly by spraying with cool (not cold) water. Cooling the dog slowly is the key. Give your dog a bath in cool water or wrap in a towel soaked in cool water.
Use a fan to cool your dog
Use cool water on your dog’s foot pads, groin and in their underarms
If your dog will drink, give it cool, NOT ICY, water.
Get your dog to a vet as soon as possible
What do Piran Pets do to keep your dog’s cool on hot days?
- Walk in cool, shaded areas where there is lots of water
- Keep air conditioning on in the van at all times
- Have water available for dogs to drink both in the van and on walks
- Restrict ball throwing or high energy games
- Keep air conditioning on when picking up and dropping off dogs
- Ensuring dogs have adequate water at home on drop off