With the weather here set to rise near 100 (!) on Thursday, these tips seemed like the perfect reminder that pups just don’t do well in extreme heat. So courtesy of the Dane County Humane Society in Madison, Wis. here are a few symptoms of heat stroke in dogs:
-Heavy panting
-Bright red mucous membranes
-Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth
-Whining, barking, or other anxious behavior
-Vomiting and diarrhea
-Confusion and a lack of coordination – the dog may collapse and be unable to stand
-Uncontrolled tremors
-Seizures
If you suspect your dog is suffering from heat stroke, act right away! Move the dog into the shade or into an air conditioned area. Apply cool (NOT COLD) towels to the dog’s fleshy areas — underside, armpits, and toes. Very cold water will cause the blood vessels to constrict, further preventing heat loss. Offer water, but do not force the animal to drink. Contact your veterinarian as soon as possible following an episode of suspected heat stroke to address the possibility of delayed complications, such as kidney failure.
Dogs most susceptible to heat stroke include the very young and very old, dark-colored or long-haired dogs, brachiocephalic breeds (dogs with short muzzles, such as pugs), and overweight dogs or dogs with other medical conditions. To prevent a dog from overheating, avoid excessive exercise in the heat of the day and always provide cool drinking water.
[photo via]
The Girl and Her Dog 