A record-breaking heat wave across the Midwest and Northeast is forcing dog owners to keep a close eye on their dog for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke this week.
Heat stroke in dogs is a potentially fatal condition which occurs when the body’s normal heat dissipating mechanisms become overwhelmed, causing the dog’s internal temperature to rise above 105°F (normal temperature for dogs is 99-102.5°F).
When a dog is suffering from heat stroke, you may see the following signs:
- Heavy panting
- Excessive drooling with thick saliva
- Blue, brown, pale, or red gums in dogs
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea (which may be bloody)
- Altered mentation (i.e. the dog acts dazed or confused)
- Seizures in dogs
- Ataxia or stumbling gait (i.e. the dog is wobbly and off balance)
- Collapse or inability to stand
- Lethargy
Prior to seeing these clinical signs, you may notice warning signals that your dog is becoming overheated or suffering from heat exhaustion (the stage before heat stroke)—your dog may be panting heavily, looking for a cool place to lie down, or acting tired.
What should you do if you think your dog has heatstroke?
If you think your dog may be developing signs of heat stroke, wet your dog with cool (not cold) water and immediately drive to the vet with the air-conditioning on full blast (or the windows open). It is critical that you make an emergency vet visit as soon as possible because time is of the essence when it comes to treating heat stroke.
Creative solutions to keep your dog cool during a heat stroke
Regardless of how hot it is outside, most dogs still need to go outside to relieve themselves and get some exercise. The key to doing this during a heat wave is to limit how much time they spend outside, and walking them early in the morning and at night once the sun has gone down. Avoid hot asphalt or concrete.
Other tips include making sure dogs have access to shade and have plenty of fresh water to drink inside and outside. More