Heatstroke in Dogs: Vital Information from Your Veterinarian in Carmel
It’s August, and that means we’re well into the dog days of summer here in Indiana. It’s a great time to enjoy some time in the sun and soak up the warm weather before summer gives way to fall. It’s also, unfortunately, a time when your beloved canine companion may be at risk of suffering heatstroke. Heatstroke can be deadly in dogs, so it’s important to understand the signs and know how to prevent it. Keep reading to discover some helpful information from your veterinarian in Carmel.
Preventing Heatstroke in Dogs
When it comes to preventing heatstroke, the most important rule is to never leave your pet in the car on a warm day. You might think they’re safe when it isn’t extremely hot outside, but even on a 70-degree day, the temperature inside a parked car can exceed 104 degrees within half an hour. Leaving a window open does little to mitigate rising temperatures, and even if you leave your car running with the air conditioner on, there’s a chance that the car could break down or the air conditioner might fail.
Bottom line: Don’t risk it. Never leave your pet inside a parked car unsupervised on a warm or hot day. You can also prevent heatstroke by…
- Having a cool area for your pet to relax and ensuring outdoor pets have access to shade
- Ensuring your dog always has access to clean, cool water
- Avoiding strenuous activities during hot weather
- Steering clear of concrete, asphalt, and other surfaces that reflect heat
Symptoms of Heatstroke
Recognizing the symptoms of heatstroke and taking immediate action could save your dog’s life. The symptoms of heatstroke include:
- Excessive panting
- Dehydration
- High body temperature
- Red eye and/or mouth membranes
- Irregular, rapid heartbeat
- Diarrhea
- Confusion, weakness, and/or appearing dazed
- Coma
When to Contact Your Veterinarian in Carmel
If you have any reason to suspect that your dog is suffering from heatstroke, contact your veterinarian in Carmel immediately. Heatstroke is an emergency that requires immediate veterinary care. At VetCheck Pet Urgent Care Center, we are here when our patients need us most. If your dog is suffering from heatstroke, bring them in or call us immediately.