Summer is here! This time of year can be very dangerous for Fido. After all, he not only has a fur coat on, he also doesn’t have many ways to cool off. Dogs can’t sweat the way we can, and panting only helps so much. Therefore, it’s very important to watch for signs that your pup may be getting too hot. A McHenry, IL vet lists some key ones below.
Signs
Heavy panting is often the first sign that a pup is getting dangerously hot. You may also notice more severe warning signs, such as glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, trembling, vomiting, excessive drool, and discolored, a warm back, and/or dark red gums and tongue. Severe overheating can cause even more frightening symptoms, such as seizure, weakness, and collapse.
What To Do
If you notice any of these red flags in your four-legged friend, the first thing you want to do is get him out of the heat and start giving him water. Don’t let Fido drink too much at once: this could make him vomit, which will only make matters worse. You can also take steps to cool your furry companion off. Hose him down, or mist his fur with water and point a fan at him. You can also put a cold or wet towel over him. Contact your vet or an emergency clinic as you are doing these things, and ask for further instructions.v
Prevention
When it comes to pet care, an ounce of prevention is often worth several pounds of cure. Take care not to let Fido get too hot in the first place. Make sure your canine buddy always has water and shade available. Also, don’t encourage him to run or play during the hottest parts of the day. Last but definitely not least, never leave your pooch alone in a car, even just for a few minutes.
Knowing The Risk
It’s worth noting that some dogs are more prone to heat stroke and heat exhaustion than others are. Brachycephalic pups are at high risk, because of their short air passages. Senior dogs, puppies, and pooches with chronic health problems are also in the red zone here. Pay extra attention if your furry pal fits into any of these categories!
Please contact us, your McHenry, IL vet clinic, for all your dog’s veterinary care needs. We’re dedicated to offering great care!