Let’s learn more about the dangers of heat stroke in dogs.
As a pet parent, it’s easy to underestimate the danger of briefly leaving your dog in a hot car. Unfortunately, many pet parents are unaware that maintaining your pet in a car as the temperatures rise can be deadly. In particular, heat stroke is dangerous to leave your dog in a hot car. Let’s learn more about the dangers of heat stroke in dogs.
Heat Stroke Signs and Symptoms in Dogs
Dogs are especially susceptible to heat stroke because they cannot regulate their body temperature like humans can. Also, the few sweats glans they have are in their feet, and panting is the only way they can attempt to regulate their temperature. In addition, pet owners should watch out for signs of heat stroke in dogs. One of the common heat stroke signs is panting. Excessive panting indicates the dog is overheating.
Moreover, some of the most common symptoms of heat stroke in dogs include:
- Rapid panting
- Weakness
- Vomiting
- Rapid heartbeat
- Collapse
- Thick, sticky saliva
- Bright red tongue and gums
It’s critical to act quickly if you notice any of these symptoms in your dog to prevent the condition from worsening.
Take Action if You Suspect Your Pet Has Heat Stroke
If you suspect your pet pal has heat stroke, you should get them out of the hot environment and move them to a cooler location. You may also use cool water to wet your dog’s fur and skin to help lower their body temperature. Remember, avoid using ice-cold water to cool your dog down because this will worsen the condition by causing their blood vessels to constrict and prevent the body from cooling down adequately.
Preventing Heat Stroke in Dogs
Heat stroke in dogs is a severe condition that can be deadly if left untreated. As a pet owner, it’s vital to take steps to prevent heat stroke from happening in the first place. This includes avoiding leaving your pet in hot vehicles, offering plenty of water and shade, and seeking veterinary care immediately if you see signs or symptoms of a heat stroke.
Support Your Pet’s Wellness at Alexander Animal Hospital
Alexander Animal Hospital is a full-service animal hospital located in Severna Park, Maryland, serving the Severna Park, Pasadena, and Arnold Areas. Our goal is educating clients on the needs of their pets and understanding the importance of individualized veterinary care in order to strengthen the human-animal bond between owners and their pets.
We understand you have a choice when deciding on the care for your pets, and we strive to provide you with unparalleled services including wellness exams, vaccines, lost pet microchip ID, dental care, surgical services, digital radiography, and in-hospital laboratory services and diagnostics. Other highlights of Alexander Animal Hospital are the separate cat and dog waiting and exam rooms, as well as after-hours on-call emergency services.
Please take a look around our website and then give us a call at 410-777-8678 to set up an appointment. We’re social! Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest for all the latest updates!