HEAT EXHAUSTION

Finally our weather is turning warm, remember with hot weather the hazard of our dogs suffering from heat exhaustion can be a consequence.  Without precautions and monitoring our pets activities, heat exhaustion is a possibility! Tomorrow we will discuss heat stroke.

 

 

HEAT EXHAUSTION

 

Unfortunately for our dogs they are unable to sweat like us. The only way dogs cool themselves is by panting. Panting helps to reduce your dog’s body temperature. It’s up to you to make sure your dog doesn’t over heat. Heat exhaustion is the early stages of heat stroke.

By taking immediate steps to cool your dogs down you will help to avoid what could be the more fatal extension - Heat stroke.  Always have cool water available. Make sure if your dog is getting too hot to get your dog into a shady or cooler place. Stop any vigorous activity. Apply cold wet towels over your dog. Let the dog air dry. The above actions will help to cool your dog’s body down.

Dogs that are higher risk for heat exhaustion are older dogs or dogs that are overweight. Breeds that are at higher risk for over heating are double coated or breeds that have snub- noses like Pugs, Boston Terriers, Boxers.

 

SIGNS OF HEAT EXHAUSTION

 

Excessive panting

A lot of thick white saliva

Warm to the touch

Possible diarrhea and vomiting

Skin in the ears is red

To learn more about this and other medical conditions, register for a Canine First aid Course at http://knowthydog.com/register.asp or contact knowthydog@yahoo.ca