Signs of Heat Stroke in your Dog
The most common symptoms to watch for with heat stroke in dogs are:
*Heavy panting
*Excessive drooling
*Frequent breaks lying down
*Fast/irregular heart beat
*Lethargy, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, stumbling, seizures
How to Protect your Dog from Heat Stroke
Exercise your dogs in the early morning or mid-evening. And notice your dog during their time outside, cutting it short if they seem to be tiring more easily than usual
During and after exercise, only allow your dog small amounts of water at a time. Drinking large amounts too quickly can lead to problems, one of which could be bloat. Don’t give them free access to food or water until they are well rested
If your dog’s enjoy their days in the fenced-in yard, it is vital they have lots of shade and abundant fresh water. Check on them regularly, heat stroke can come on fast. A fun activity can be playing in a plastic kiddie pool to stay comfortable.
Tips for Dogs with Heat Stroke
*It’s vital not to cool them too quickly, this can shock their already weakened body. Don’t plunge your dog into an ice bath
*Wet washcloths or towels with cool water and drape them over the dog’s chest and neck. Get more than one so you can change them out as they become warm from contact with the dog
*Ice or freezer packs applied over wet towels can help too
*Get yourdog into your shower or tub if you can, and wet her down with cool— NOT COLD—water, especially along her chest and the back of her neck
*Use a digital thermometer to check body temperature rectally every 5 minutes. Remember: normal is 100-102.5° Fahrenheit. Temps above 104° are dangerous.
Get to the vet ASAP in an air-conditioned car. Let them know what you’ve done so far. Prolonged high body-temperature, or hypothermia, can cause damage to the brain and other internal organs. Some dogs need IV fluids to help them get hydrated again, and to treat shock. Getting an exam as soon as possible is the best way to be sure the emergency is over.
