Is your dog drinking a lot of water lately? We’re heading into the Dog Days of summer, and many of our canine companions are coping with the heat by lounging in cool, shady areas, slurping up lots of H20, and, of course, begging for ice cream. Summer’s stifling heat can be very dangerous to Man’s Best Friend. A Plano, TX vet discusses overheating in dogs below.
Warning Signs
Panting is usually the first warning sign. This isn’t always a red flag: it’s perfectly normal for dogs to pant after they’ve been running or playing. However, continuous panting is not normal. If your pooch looks like he’s struggling to breathe, there’s definitely something going on. Glazed, dull, or sunken eyes are also a red flag. Dogs that are too hot may also act disoriented: they may stumble or lurch as they’re walking. Other signs include excessive drool, vomiting, diarrhea, discolored gums, an elevated pulse, and dark urine. These are all signs that Fido is in heat exhaustion. If the condition progresses into heat stroke, the signs become even more severe, and may include seizure and collapse.
What To Do
The moment you notice any of these warning signs, immediately get Fido to a cool area and give him some water. You don’t want to let your furry friend drink too much: that could make him throw up, exacerbating the issue. Take steps to cool your pet off right away. Hosing him down can work. You can also get a spray bottle of water, put it before a fan, and mist him. Or, put a wet towel over him. You’ll want to be on the phone with your vet or an emergency clinic as you are doing these things. They’ll be able to provide further instructions.
Prevention
The best course of action to take here is to just protect Fido from that sweltering heat. Make sure your canine pal always has lots of cool, fresh water. On hot days, drop ice cubes into his bowl, or offer him a dish of chilled sodium-free broth. Your furry friend should also always have access to cool and/or shady areas. Keep in mind that some dogs, such as brachycephalic pups, are even more susceptible to heat. Take extra care with high-risk pups. Ask your vet for more information.
Is Fido due for an appointment? Contact us, your Plano, TX pet clinic!
