When it’s too hot to breathe, you need to be more concerned about your dog's health. For us, sweat glands are distributed almost all over our body. But for dogs, sweat glands are only on their tongue and paw pads. It makes them relatively vulnerable to heat. To keep your doggy from overheating, let's learn about what heat stroke in dogs is and how to deal with it!
Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs
No 1. Panting and Drooling
Panting and drooling are signs of heat stroke. Their saliva can get thick and sticky.
Dogs with short noses such as Pekingese and Pugs are especially vulnerable to heat.
No 2. Fast Pulse and High Body Temperature
Your dog’s pulse gets faster and the body temperature goes up. If you touch his nose, it can be hot and dry. A dog’s normal body temperature ranges from 101 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit.
If his temperature is above 103 degrees, he is overheated. If it is above 104 degrees, it’s an emergency.
No 3. Unsteady Gait and Shivering
If your dog can’t walk well and shivers, it’s serious. He could even faint. If so, take him to a vet quickly.
No 4. Dehydration
Heat strokes can occur with dehydration. Your doggy may be lethargic and just wanna lay down to sleep. He may look tired. Also, his gum color may become blue, purple or grey.
He may feel dizzy, stumble, and keep bumping into furniture.
Emergency First Aid for Heat Stroke in Dogs
If your dog gets overheated on a hot day, check his body temperature and move him to a cool place right away. Next, apply lukewarm water around his ears and paws. Then, turn on the fan.
Check if his temperature falls below 103 degrees. If he seems to get better, let him drink lukewarm water. After first aid, go see a vet as soon as possible.
Tips For Preventing Heat Stroke in Dogs
No 1. Don’t Leave Your Dog Alone in a Hot Car
During hot weather, even for a moment, never leave your dog alone in a car. When it's 90 degrees outside, it will rise to 109 degrees inside the car in 10 minutes and 124 degrees in 30 minutes. His body temperature could rise quickly in the car.
No 2. Provide Enough Fresh Water
Dogs can be dehydrated if they don’t drink enough water. Check the water bowl from time to time.
Cut bananas, watermelons, carrots, and apples into sticks and freeze them. These are great ice snacks for hydration.
No 3. Keep The Ideal Room Temperature
If you leave your dog at home alone in hot weather, make sure to fill the water bowl and set the A/C or fan timer. The ideal room temperature is about 50 to 85 degrees. On a hot day, the room temperature easily rises above 86 degrees without A/C.
No 4. Walk Your Dog Safely in Heat
First, don’t walk your dog between 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.,which is the hottest time of the day. Next, check the ground temperature and walk in the shade. Lastly, take a rest and give him water as often as possible.