Dog heat stroke can be fatal, mainly if it is not treated immediately. Like us, dogs can become too hot and faint. It becomes more difficult to breathe when there is too much heat and sun. Thus, it’s also advisable to bring your dog to animal hospital Virginia Beach when you suspect your dog experiencing heat exhaustion.
In particular, dogs have ways of keeping cool during the sweltering summer season when the heat beats down for hours. In either case, using these natural cooling methods still leaves you vulnerable to heat exhaustion.
Causes of Heat Exhaustion in Dogs
Overexposure to heat and sunlight is the principal reason for dog heat exhaustion. Your pet may experience several situations that make them dizzy and uncomfortable. For instance, playing with your dog in the hot sun around noon can make your puppy too hot.
It is advisable only to take your dog for a walk when it is cloudy outside or when there is a cool, shaded place. Over-100-degree Fahrenheit temperatures are hazardous.
Because of how dense their fur is, dogs’ coats and fur tend to hold onto a lot of heat. Unlike humans, dogs have long coats of fur that encircle and envelop their entire body. This does nothing but trap heat, creating oppressive heat that is almost impossible to expel.
Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion in Dogs
Different dogs respond differently to heat. However, most dogs who experience heat exhaustion have similar traits and clinical signs. Dogs suffering from severe heat exhaustion may pant profusely for hours unless they are adequately cooled off and given cool water. A dog suffering from heat exhaustion will not only pant, but it’s also typical to watch them walk back and forth while trembling.
To stay cool, dogs will take tiny steps back and forth to simulate a breeze. Dogs may partially regulate their body temperature by using their paws’ soles. Dogs become more relaxed due to the heat dissipating from their paws.
Vets at pet hospital Virginia Beach say that it may be difficult for them to cool off if they remain stationary for an extended period of time, especially if their paws are tucked under. Instead, the heat is prevented from leaving your dog’s body, gradually raising its internal temperature.
Dog Heat Exhaustion Prevention
Even easier than treating dog heat exhaustion is preventing it. First of all, make sure your dog has a cooling station with a sizable water bowl wherever you go that is outside. While they are playing outside, avoid giving your puppy any treats. These snacks’ saltiness and dryness may cause your dog’s mouth to become dehydrated.
Water intake is essential. Your puppy needs water to stay hydrated when under the intense summer sun. A little kiddie pool should be added to your yard if you want your energetic dog to play outdoors. To reduce the likelihood that your dog will drown, fill the water halfway above its height.
Keeping your dog inside once the air temp has surpassed 85 degrees Fahrenheit is simpler. Remember that your dog experiences the same sensations that you do if the sun is penetrating your skin.
The medical condition known as heat exhaustion is significant, especially in canines struggling in the scorching sun. During the sweltering summer, you need to keep your pup cool because exposure to direct sunlight can cause overheating and injury. Dogs can also develop sunburns on their lips, noses, and fur. Your pet can stay cool and comfortable outside by maintaining a shaded area with plenty of water nearby.
How to Prevent Dog Heat Exhaustion?
You can carry a few items and supplies if you must walk your dog in the blazing sun to keep your pet cool. Ensure to have enough cold water and a small foldable bowl to keep them hydrated. Some bowls are equipped with a tiny hook and are simple to fasten to belt buckles.
But the water shouldn’t be icy cold. Even while it may be tempting, giving your dog ice water might put them in shock due to the drastic temperature change. Instead, bring little, airy boots with you to shield your dog’s feet from the concrete, which can be hotter than the air outside. Dog shoes come in handy when the concrete is sweltering from heat and intense sunlight.