Dogs and Heatstroke By Kelly Marshall At Isnare.com Ezine Articles

It is very important to make sure that your dog is protected as much as possible from getting heatstroke. Whether you are out hiking with your dog or simply letting it run around the yard during the summer, there are things you need to know about this life threatening condition.

What Is Heatstroke?

Heatstroke happens when the body temperature exceeds a safe range. Humans sweat and dogs do not which makes it harder for them to cool off. Dogs with a temperature of up to one hundred and six degrees Fahrenheit can recover if they are given proper first aid and are quickly seen by a vet. Any temperature over that is considered severe and can be deadly.

Signs of Heatstroke

There are many signs to watch for regarding heatstroke. Some include rapid painting, thick saliva, weakness, bright red tongue and dizziness. But those are not the only signs your dog could show when suffering from heatstroke. Also watch out for shock, diarrhea, vomiting, depression and coma.

First Aid

The first thing you will want to do is to remove the dog from the heat immediately. You must lower his temperature by using cold water. For small dogs, such as toy breeds, you should use lukewarm water so that further shock to the system does not occur. Even though you will be using cold water, make sure that it is not ice cold, even for larger breeds. You do not want the body temperature to cool too quickly. Once you have used water for cooling the dog, you will want to use a fan to increase the movement of air around him. Even if you think your dog is recovering well from the heatstroke, you must still take him to the veterinarian. This is because your dog could be dehydrated or have some other kinds of complications that you would not be able to detect.

Prevention

Keep a special watch on dogs with heart disease, breathing problems or who are obese or in their retirement years. These dogs must be kept in the shade at all times, even for what would normally be routine activity. It is also vital to make sure that your pet has access to cool water at all times. If your dog is spending any length of time outdoors in the heat, make sure that you periodically wet your dog with cool water to keep a level body temperature. When relaxing in the home, make sure that the dog is in a room with air conditioning. For homes without air conditioning, place frozen ice packs, frozen water bottles or sealed packs of ice into a tube sock and allow the dog to lay on it. This will keep the body temperature down.

In the end, the battle with heat stroke is all on your shoulders. There is nothing your dog can do to protect himself if you are not providing him with adequate shelter and water. Make sure that you are keeping your dog in mind during the hot months so that he is safe.

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