Heat Stroke In Pets: Expert Advice On How Keep Your Dog From Over-Heating

We’ve all heard the warnings about not leaving your pet in the car during hot weather. The temperature inside a vehicle can climb quickly, so even just popping into the shop for a few minutes whilst your dog is in the back seat can be dangerous. But heat stroke is not just something that occurs during long summer trips in the car. 

Any environment where your dog is left confined, without access to fresh drinking water, or in close proximity to a heat source can carry risks to their health. Which is why DogInsider.com are sharing advice from canine experts on spotting, preventing and treating the condition. Access it for FREE at https://doginsider.com/how-to-prevent-heat-stroke-in-dogs      

What is heat stroke?

Heat stroke occurs when a dog's body temperature rises to dangerous levels, potentially causing organ damage and even, in the most tragic cases, death. 

Humans can also get heat stroke, but dogs are even more susceptible thanks to their furry coats. So if you’re feeling uncomfortable, then it is definitely too hot for your dog. 

Given how fast the condition can progress and how potentially serious it is, you need to know the signs of heat stroke in dogs to help prevent this life-threatening condition. 

What does heat stroke look like in dogs?

Early indicators include:

• heavy panting,
• lethargy, and
• excessive drooling.

If you notice these symptoms, act quickly to cool your dog down.

How do I treat heat stroke?

Your main objective is to reduce your dog’s body temperature to safe levels. If possible, remove them from the hot environment and then begin taking steps to cool them down:

• Active cooling: wet their fur with cool (not cold!) water or use a wet towel 
• Ventilation: turn on the AC or put them close to a fan. The cooler air blowing over their skin will help them cool down quicker.
• Hydration: encourage your dog to drink plenty of cold water. Add ice cubes to the water for even quicker cooling of their internal body temperature.
• Seek veterinary care: if your dog isn’t getting better or starts to get worse, contact your vet for immediate medical attention. Don’t wait. Left untreated, heat stroke can be fatal.

How can I prevent heat stroke?

The best way to keep your dog safe in the heat is to prevent heat stroke from ever occurring.

DogInsider.com shares these top tips to help keep your dog safe:

• Provide shade: the difference in temperature between a sunny courtyard and under a shady tree is drastic. So ensure your dog has access to shade when outdoors. 
• Fresh water: keep multiple bowls of fresh, cool water available for your dog. If you are leaving them, even for a short period, consider adding ice cubes to keep the water cooler for longer.
• Avoid overexertion: on hot summer days, limit your dog's exercise and playtime. High temperatures can quickly lead to overheating. If it's too hot for you to go for a run, it's definitely too hot for your furry friend.
• Never leave your dog unattended in a car: even with windows partially opened, car interiors can become dangerously hot within minutes. Don’t take the risk.
• Monitor their environment: keep an eye on the temperature. If it's sweltering, it's best to keep your dog indoors with the AC or a fan turned on.

Want to learn more about keeping your dog safe and healthy? You can access the latest guidance on how to prevent heat stroke in dogs, as well as other articles on pet health and nutrition, at https://doginsider.com