Summertime has arrived and that means you need to stay cool as the heat is rising outside. Humans can do this by wearing the proper clothing and drinking plenty of water but for dogs, it is quite different.
Dogs have a difficulty cooling down when the weather is hot. They are not able to sweat, so they need to circulate air through their body by panting. Taking care of your dogs properly can help to keep them from getting overheated and may even prevent a heatstroke.
Knowing the symptoms of a heatstroke and how to prevent or treat them is an important part of knowing how to care for your dog properly.
What Is a Canine Heatstroke?
Hyperthermia (canine heatstroke) occurs when a dog’s temperature rises above the normal range. When this happens, the dog’s ability to regulate its temperature does not work the same, and there is a risk of organ failure.
The first thing we will consider are potential preventative measures to help avoid the problem in the first place.
How Can I Prevent a Canine Heatstroke
1: Keep the Dog inside
The easiest way to prevent your dog from getting overheated is to keep them inside in the air conditioning when the weather is hot outside.
2: Fresh Water
Be sure that your dog has access to plenty of fresh, clean water so they stay hydrated.
3: Your Dog’s Temperature
Your dog’s temperature should not go above 106°F. If you are not sure if your dog is overheated or not, take his temperature.
What Are the Symptoms of Canine Heatstroke?
1: Excessive Drooling
It is normal for a dog to drool, especially when they are panting to stay cool. If they are overheating, however, hyper salivation may occur.
2: Red Gums
If the dogs gums are getting overly red, it could mean that they are getting overheated and dehydrated. Checking the dogs gums is a great way to know if you are giving them enough water.
3: Uncoordinated Movements
If your dog is wobbling or having a difficulty staying awake, get them to a veterinarian right away or try to get them cooled down as quickly as possible.
How Can I Treat a Canine Heatstroke?
1: Remove the Dog from the Heat
It is important to cool the dog down slowly rather than trying to cool them quickly. Put them in a cooler spot, such as in the shade and allow them to cool down. Putting them in a cold temperature environment quickly could shock them.
2: Provide Cool Water
It is also important to hydrate the animal properly. Give them some cool water, although don’t make it ice cold. If the dog can’t drink water, get them to the vet right away.
3: Water Hose
It is also possible to cool down the dog by spraying him with a water hose. It is important, however, to check the temperature of the water hose, as it may be too cold and could be a shock to his system.
4: Rubbing Alcohol
You can cool down the dog by putting rubbing alcohol on his paws. It will help to cool down the paws and circulate that coolness through the rest of the body.
Be sure you don’t use too much rubbing alcohol, as it could have adverse effects.
5: Call the Veterinarian
If your dog continues to have symptoms of hyperthermia or if you don’t feel equipped to handle the situation, contact a veterinarian.
Summer can be a great time for you and your dog. Just make sure you stay alert to any problems.
Via: Little Things
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