Everyone loves summertime, including pets! Especially for those who endure harsh winters, summer is a turning point that can lift the whole family’s mood. But summer fun can come to a quick halt when a family member is sick. Making sure that your dog beats the heat is just as important as is it for the rest of the family. Overheating is a serious problem that can be prevented and treated as necessary. The saying dog days of summer did not appear for no reason.
Signs of Overheating:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Elevated pulse
- Disorientation
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Diarrhea
- Change in the color of their gums and/or tongue (bright red or blue)
What to do if your Dog is Overheating:
- Immediate action is best–call your vet!
- Take your dog to a cool environment, either in doors with fans/AC or the closest cool body of water (pool, lake, ocean)
- Cold, wet washcloths can be placed on the neck, armpits, or the back of legs
- Give your dog small amounts of cool (not cold) water, but do not force them to drink it. Do NOT feed them ice
- Take unconscious dogs to the vet or ER immediately
- Check their temperature, above 103 degrees Fahrenheit is of concern
Tips for Prevention:
- Only go outside when necessary on extremely hot days
- Always bring water with you when bringing your dog on outdoor adventures
- Never leave your dog alone in a car
- Be mindful of changes in your dog’s behavior on hot days
- Don’t push your dog too hard to exercise on extremely hot days
- Consider different types of exercise on hotter days (e.g., swimming), or walking during cooler hours
- If you are the parent of a working dog, make sure you give them lots of breaks
- Get your dog a summer trim
- Know your dog’s medical history for anything that might put them at more risk of overheating
