Summer Is Here! Know the Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs and How to Prevent It

Your best friend can’t always tell you when he’s too hot, so you need to be aware of symptoms of heat stroke in dogs in Phoenix, AZ. The summers here can reach alarming temperatures, and if your four-legged pal doesn’t stay cool enough, she can suffer from heat stroke or even cardiac arrest.

Use the following guide so you’ll know how to prevent heat stroke in dogs in Phoenix, AZ. Your pooch will thank you for helping him stay cool and healthy during the hot summer months.

Signs of heat stroke

First, it’s important to know what symptoms to look for in your dog:

• Excessive panting: This is typically the first symptom of overheating. If your dog is panting more than usual, it’s because he’s trying desperately to stay cool.
• Unresponsiveness: Another early sign of overheating or heat stroke is a lack of response. If your dog seems less responsive to commands than he usually is, it might be because he’s too hot.
• Drooling: Sure, most dogs drool a bit. But if your dog shows signs of excessive drooling, he might be getting close to heat stroke.
• Dizziness: If your dog seems to lack coordination or is dizzy, he probably needs to cool down.
• Convulsions: Dogs who are dangerously overheated may suffer convulsions or collapse.
• Vomiting/diarrhea: These are other severe symptoms that may indicate your dog is seriously overheated.
• Loss of consciousness: If your dog becomes extremely overheated, he or she may even pass out.

Heat stroke prevention

There are some simple steps you can take to prevent heat stroke in dogs:

• Limit outdoor activity on high-temperature days.
• Keep your dog in the shade.
• Provide plenty of water both indoors and outdoors.
• NEVER leave your dog in a parked car, even with the windows open.
• Let your dog go for a swim or play in the sprinkler to get exercise on hot days.
• Give your dog a short haircut for the summer (but not so short that he has nothing left to protect him from the sun).

Heat stroke treatment

If you notice that your pet is exhibiting symptoms of heat stroke in dogs in Phoenix, AZ, take the following actions:

• Move your dog to a cooler area: Get him in the air conditioning, under a fan or at least in the shade.
• Check your dog’s temperature: Use a rectal thermometer to see if your dog is in the danger zone of heat stroke. Temperatures between 103 and 106 indicate heat exhaustion. Over 106 puts your dog at risk for heat stroke. If his temperature is above 106, get him to a vet right away.
• Wet him down: Let your dog take a dip in a baby pool or lake to cool off. You can also use cool, wet cloths to gently wipe him down and help him get cool.
• Give your dog a drink: Provide your dog cool, fresh water. If he can’t drink or won’t drink, you can wet his tongue with water. Do not give him ice cubes, as the extreme cold can cause shock.
• Call your vet: If you suspect your dog is suffering from heat stroke, contact your vet and take your dog in for treatment.

We’re here to help

If your pet is showing symptoms of heat stroke in dogs in Phoenix, AZ, don’t hesitate to reach out to Christown Animal Hospital. We are dedicated to keeping your best friend healthy and happy. Reach out to us today to learn more.

Categorised in: Emergency Vet

This post was written by Writer