Introduction
Sam had a pleasant morning walk with his Mom but as the day progressed he started to look very uncomfortable, became listless, began panting and his heart rate increased…; his Mom became very worried and Sam was rushed to the veterinary clinic where it was revealed that Sam had suffered a heat stroke.
With temperatures on the rise across the country, dogs everywhere will need extra care to stay healthy in the unrelenting heat. Here are some summer safety tips that you can employ to ensure your dog stays protected from sunburn and heatstroke this summer.
Preventing Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a serious condition that can occur in dogs when their body temperature rises to dangerously high levels, typically due to exposure to hot and humid conditions. Recognizing the signs of heatstroke is crucial for taking immediate action to prevent further complications.
- Dogs regulate their body temperature through panting. If your dog is panting heavily and persistently, especially in hot weather or after exercise, it could indicate heatstroke.
- Heatstroke can cause dogs to drool excessively. The saliva may be thicker and stickier than usual.
- An elevated heart rate is a sign that your dog’s body is under stress. You may be able to feel your dog’s heart beating rapidly by placing your hand on their chest.
- Heatstroke can cause the gums and tongue to become bright red or even purple in severe cases. This indicates poor oxygenation and circulation.
- Heatstroke can lead to gastrointestinal upset, resulting in vomiting and diarrhea. Dehydration may also occur as a result of fluid loss.
- As heatstroke progresses, dogs may become weak, lethargic, or disoriented. In severe cases, they may collapse or lose consciousness.
- Heatstroke can cause a glazed or glassy appearance in a dog’s eyes. They may appear dull or unfocused.
- A rectal temperature above 104°F (40°C) is considered hyperthermia and indicates heatstroke. It’s essential to use a rectal thermometer to accurately measure your dog’s temperature.
- Heatstroke can lead to difficulty breathing or labored breathing as the body struggles to cool down.
- In severe cases, heatstroke can cause seizures or loss of consciousness. This is a life-threatening emergency and requires immediate veterinary attention.
To prevent sunstroke, owners must walk their dogs early in the morning or late evening when the weather is cooler. One must also ensure that the dog stays hydrated throughout the day and stays under shade.
Most importantly, owners should NEVER leave their dogs in hot spaces such as cars.
Protecting dogs from sunburn
Dogs can indeed get sunburned, especially those with short hair or light-colored coats, as well as areas with little fur coverage such as the nose, ears, and belly. To protect dogs from sunburn:
Avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak sunlight hours (usually between 10 am and 4 pm). Try to keep your dog indoors or in shaded areas during these times.
If your dog will be spending time outdoors, especially during sunny days, consider applying a pet-safe sunscreen to areas with thin or light-colored fur, such as the nose, ears, and belly. Make sure to use a sunscreen specifically formulated for dogs, as human sunscreen can contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs if ingested.
Consider dressing your dog in lightweight clothing, such as a doggy shirt or rash guard, to provide additional protection from the sun. There are also specially made UV-protective clothing items available for dogs.
Ensure your dog has access to shaded areas when outdoors. This could be provided by trees, umbrellas, or other structures that offer protection from direct sunlight.
If possible, schedule outdoor activities such as walks or playtime during the cooler parts of the day to reduce the risk of sunburn.
Provide plenty of fresh water for your dog to drink, especially during hot weather, to prevent dehydration and help regulate their body temperature.
Keep an eye out for signs of sunburn, such as redness, inflammation, or discomfort. If you notice any signs of sunburn, consult your veterinarian for appropriate treatment and advice.
Proper hydration
Ensuring proper hydration for dogs is crucial for their overall health and well-being, especially during hot weather or periods of physical activity. Always make sure your dog has access to clean, fresh water throughout the day. Keep their water bowl filled and change the water regularly to prevent contamination.
Consider placing multiple water bowls in different areas to make it easy for your dog to access water wherever they are.
When spending time outdoors with your dog, bring along a portable water bowl and sufficient water to keep them hydrated. Encourage your dog to take regular water breaks during outdoor activities.
Also, pay attention to how much water your dog is drinking on a daily basis. Increased water consumption can be a sign of dehydration or other health issues, while decreased water intake may indicate a problem. Make sure to regularly clean your dog’s water bowl to prevent bacterial growth and ensure that it remains appealing for your dog to drink from.
Lastly, wet dog food or adding water to dry kibble can help increase your dog’s overall water intake, especially if they are reluctant to drink from their water bowl.
Conclusion
To prevent heat stroke, owners must stay cognizant of symptoms such as panting, lethargy and increased heart rate. Owners must make sure their dogs get plenty of access to water and shade and strenuous physical activities should be avoided when temperatures are very high. Always make sure your dog has access to clean drinking water and be sure to seek vet advice for a dog if they start to show symptoms of a heat stroke.
Dogs are also susceptible to sunburns during summers, to prevent that from happening it’s a good idea to reduce their outdoor activities and get them proper light clothing for summers. By following these tips you will not only help a dog but allow them to have enjoyable and happy summer months.
