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Dog Days of Summer
Dogs do not perspire as we do. When we get overly hot we are able to sweat to dissipate the heat. Dogs sweat through their paws and release excess heat by panting. They control their body heat primarily by bringing air through their nose and out their mouth. If a dog cannot bring air through its nose and release it through its mouth it will overheat and without medical attention could die.
A dog’s normal body temperature is around 100-102. At 105 degrees brain damage can occur. When a dog’s internal body temperature reaches 110 degrees, death is imminent Very young and very old dogs, sick dogs and those with short muzzles, like bulldogs and pugs, are less able to control their temperature through panting and are, therefore, more susceptible to heatstroke. Dogs with darker coats are also more susceptible than dogs with lighter coats as they soak up more heat from the sun.
What to look for:
Heavy panting
Dark red gums
Tacky or dry mucus membranes
Lying down and unwilling ( or unable) to get up, dizziness or disorientation
Thick saliva
What to do if you suspect heatstroke:
First, move your pet out of the heat and away from the sun
Begin cooling your pet by placing cool, wet rags or wash cloths on the body-especially the paws and around the head.
DO NOT USE ICE OR VERY COLD WATER! This could drop the body temperature too quickly causing the blood vessels to constrict. In addition, over-cooling can cause hypothermia, and a whole different range of problems.
Offer water, but do not force your pet to drink.
Take your pet to the veterinary hospital-even if they appear better. Internal damage could be present and further exam and diagnostics will be needed.
What to do to prevent heatstroke:
Provide plenty of shade and fresh water when your pet is outside.
In the summer, limit strenuous exercise to before 10:00am and after 5:00pm.
Shorter walks may be all your pet can tolerate during the hotter months of summer.
Remember, black asphalt and concrete can get very hot. Test the surface before walking your pet. It is uncomfortable to the touch for you; it will be uncomfortable and even painful to your pet.
Avoid the car. If you think you may have to leave him/her in the car, even for a short time, leave them at home.
Prevention is the key to protecting your pet from our Texas heat in the upcoming months.
Stay out of the sun, stay hydrated, and have a safe and cool summer. That goes for you two-legged creatures, too.
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