Heat Stroke - Signs and Prevention
As we move into August, dealing with the heat and keeping cool continues to be crucial, especially for us down south! I wanted to share my top tips for keeping cool, and signs to watch for that let you know your dog is getting too hot.
A dog’s breed is a really important part of how well they can regulate their temperature in the heat. Long hair doesn’t automatically mean they’re super hot in the sun! I never advise shaving a double coated breed to keep them cooler - the layer of air between the layers of fur is insulated by the fur and helps keep the dog cool, which it can’t do if you shave it off. On the other hand, short haired dogs, especially light haired, can get sunburnt.
And of course, be especially careful with your brachy breeds! They find it especially hard to regulate due to their muzzle shape. To be safe, brachy breeds should be kept inside in an air conditioned or well ventilated area except for very brief periods of time to go out to the bathroom.
COMMON MISTAKES
Cars!!! Cars get incredibly hot in the summer and so fast, even in the shade, even with the windows cracked. Leave your dog home when you run errands or invest in a set up that gives you peace of mind such as fans, running the ac, and having a temperature monitor that reports to your phone.
Dog houses do not keep dogs cool if they are not very well insulated! And unless you’ve gone out of your way, yours is not insulated. If you want a dog house, just add some insulation and add a thermometer that reports to your phone so you can monitor
Letting dogs walk on sidewalk and pavement during the height of the day- AND HOLD IT for at least 10 seconds. If uncomfortable, don’t walk. We forget to check the temperature of a surface since we often have shoes on, but be diligent to check the temp of the surface with the back of your hand before letting your dogs paw pads touch it. If you can’t avoid pavement, invest in some booties
Ask questions, join the conversation, and post pictures of your crate set up in the Facebook group!
𓃡 𓃩 𓃡 Human End of the Leash 𓃡 𓃩 𓃡
Ask questions, join the conversation, and post pictures of your crate set up in the Facebook group! 𓃡 𓃩 𓃡 Human End of the Leash 𓃡 𓃩 𓃡
HOW TO RECOGNIZE HEAT STROKE
Even if you don’t make any of the common mistakes, the sheer heat can still put your dog at risk of heat stroke. Being able to recognize it early can be lifesaving
Signs of approaching heat stroke: Very large, spoonlike/flattened tongue, often flopped out of the side of the mouth (if that is not common for your dog). Very fast (sometimes shallow) panting although the tongue and gums may be very dry (although some dogs may drool excessively). Disoriented, either lethargic or hyperactive. Skin will feel hot to your touch with a very fast heart rate.
If you live in a warm area look up and familiarize yourself with all signs of heat stroke
WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF HEAT STROKE
Find a cooler place for the dog to be asap. Shade but ideally inside somewhere with air conditioning
DO NOT try to rapidly cool the dog with access by giving ice, cold water, extreme cold temperature, etc. Using slightly cool water to wet the dog’s underside, and paw pads, and mouth.
DO NOT force water intake. This isn’t how dogs keep themselves cool. If your dog IS drinking a ton of water, limit water access (don’t remove, but give in small amounts over time)
Call your veterinarian. Heat stroke can have life threatening side effects
HOW TO BE PROACTIVE
When possible, avoid going on walks. If you must, go early in the morning or night. Wet your dog down with a hose or spray bottle or cup before you leave, and bring extra water bottles. Take frequent breaks to offer water and keep your dog's belly wet.
If you use a muzzle, it is a MUST for the dog to have FULL pant room, not just moderate. Wire or biothane muzzles that allow more air flow preferred
Consider using a harness with packs in the front or on the sides to carry ice
There are other options for cooling gear as well. Make sure you look into how it works, and use it in the backyard to confirm it keeps your dog cool enough before taking them on an outing where you will absolutely need it
If not walking but playing outside, consider enrichment involving a pool
Provide a wet towel outside for a dog to wet their paw pads
