Have a Dog? What You Need to Know About Heat Stroke

If you have a dog, it is important to understand the signs of heat stroke and what to do if your dog ever has a heat stroke.

The Signs of a Heat Stroke

There are some very obvious signs that your dog is having a heat stroke that you need to be aware of. When your dog has a heat stroke, you'll generally notice that they start to breath at a quicker rate and that their breathing will seem more shallow and kind of raspy. Your dog's gums may also change color, looking kind of pale. Sometimes, your dog's gums may even look blue.

Oftentimes, during a heat stroke, your dog may drool as well as they try to regulate their body temperature.

If you put your ear near your dog's heart, you may hear it beating faster than normal. In extreme cases, your dog may even suffer from a seizure due to the heat.

Your dog is most susceptible to heat stroke when they have spent a long time outside on a hot day or on a day when it gets hot outside very quickly.

The Steps to Take When You Suspect a Heat Stroke

If you notice your dog exhibiting one or more of the signs of a heat stroke, you need to take immediate action.

First, you need to get your dog out of the sun. Your dog is not going to cool off if they remain in the sunshine. If your dog exhibits these signs, and they are in their crate or doghouse, which is in the sunshine, move your dog's crate or doghouse.

Next, provide your dog with a clean water bowl so that they can start to cool their body off.

Then, take additional steps to cool off your dog's body. Allow your dog inside somewhere where it is cool. Take towels, get them wet, and wrap them around your dog. This will help cool your dog's skin. Be sure to wrap them loosely; if the towels are too tight, the heat will not be able to escape from your dog's body.

Finally, when your dog has started to cool off, start up your vehicle, get the air conditioning running, and create a cool area for your dog to lay down on while you get your dog to the pet hospital. Your vet can check your dog and make sure that they didn't suffer any complications from the heat stroke.