Keep cool and carry on
As summer progresses and temperatures come close to triple digits, many of us make it a habit to protect
ourselves from the sweltering heat.
Unfortunately for our pets these scorching summer months are not only uncomfortable, but they are also a time
when the risk of heat stroke
is at its highest.
“A heat stroke occurs when the body's ability to rid itself of heat is exceeded by the heat that it is generating,”
said James Barr, Assistant
Professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM). “This results in an
increase in body temperature
to the point where damage to the internal organs occurs.”
Heat stroke is a very dangerous condition, especially in pets. If it is severe, the pet will almost certainly die if it
does not receive proper
medical care immediately. “Oftentimes, the pet will be brought to the hospital too late and will die despite our
best efforts,” said Barr.
Although the initial signs of heat stroke are simply anxiety, excessive panting, and inability to settle down after
exercise, these symptoms
can quickly and severely progress into lethargy, muscle weakness, seizures, and even death.
If you believe your pet is at risk for heat stroke, there are several steps you should take immediately to
guarantee the pet’s longevity.
“The first thing you should do is take the pet’s temperature,” said Barr. “If their body temperature is above 104
degrees, they are in danger of
organ damage. Submersing the pet in cool, but not cold, water is very helpful in lowering their temperature to a
more normal level. Since
time is a crucial factor when dealing with a heat stroke, spraying a pet down with a garden hose or immersing
them in a nearby body of
water are preferred methods of cooling the pet down. After you have started this cooling process, the pet should
be seen by a veterinarian
immediately so that it can receive prompt medical attention to prevent any further damage.”
The most important way to keep your pet’s temperature at a normal range throughout the sizzling summer
months is to avoid exercising
with them during the hottest parts of the day. It is also vital to provide plenty of drinking water and to take
frequent breaks from playing
outside to allow your pet to cool off and rehydrate.
“Often a long run in the early afternoon is the precursor to a heat stroke episode,” said Barr. “It is also very
important to not leave your pets
in the car while it is not running as it can reach dangerous temperatures very quickly.”
If, after prolonged outdoor exposure, you notice that your pet does not calm down, looks lethargic, or if you are at
all worried that they may
be suffering from a heat stroke, you should immediately contact your local veterinarian or emergency services.
“The most dangerous thing is
the failure to seek veterinary attention, as time is of the essence,” said Barr.
- See more at: http://moderndogmagazine.com/articles/heat-stroke-s-deadly-effects-dogs/42645#sthash.OWKbBsMk.dpuf
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