Heatstroke in dogs
Carrying bottled water is so common now that many of us add it to the routine things we pick up as we leave the house – bag/wallet, keys, mobile phone, water.
Carrying water can help to prevent heastroke
I know that the majority of dog people are responsible and carry extra water for their dogs while out and about in hot weather, but for those who don’t realise just how dangerous the heat can be for dogs, here are some reminders. Some readers may find these stories disturbing.
http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/family-devastated-after-beloved-dog-3966029
Dogs are affected by heat more than humans and long-coated dogs, puppies, or those with flatter snouts, are particularly vulnerable.
A dog with heatstroke will have a rapid pulse, pant rapidly, salivate excessively and may seem disoriented and listless.
What to do about heatstroke
Cool the dog by immersing him in cool (not ice cold) water for several minutes and after that encourage him to drink, but don’t be surprised if he’s not that interested at first because he may feel some nausea.
Put him back in the water for a few more minutes – ideally his temperature should be taken (rectal thermometer) and you’ll know that he’s in the safe zone when the reading drops to 103° (101.5° is normal).
If you’re unable to do this but can make it to your car, put your dog in the passenger foot well and crank the air conditioning down to its coldest setting and maximum blow strength, close all of the windows and put a little water in your portable bowl for him to drink.
If even that is impossible, then all you can do is find shade, preferably with a breeze, and hope for the best.
This isn’t an endorsement and we’re not being paid to show it, but if you struggle while you’re out and about, there are things like this.
Remember as well that even in wet weather we can get very hot, so water water water, please.
Happy walking and be safe.
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