22/11/2023
Donβt be that idiot taking your dog out in the car or walking before dawn & sunset. Leave them home inside with aircon or a fan. If they must stay outside in shade set up a bunnings industrial fan on your patio, dogs love that strong breeze. Keep cool in this week long heat wave peeps ππ½
With temperatures set to soar over the next week we wanted to share an important message about Heatstroke, a serious condition that can be fatal if not treated early, or even better, prevented before it happens.
Heat stroke can affect all animals, including cats, dogs, birds, rabbits, guinea pigs and rats. Those at higher risk include geriatric pets, short nosed smoochy faced dogs, who often have small nostrils and narrow tracheas, pets who have a history of noisy breathing, snoring or excessive panting, and pets with existing heart or lung conditions.
If left untreated, and unfortunately, in some cases, even with veterinary treatment, heat stroke can have devastating consequences such as muscle damage and bleeding disorders. It can damage body organs such as the kidneys, the liver, the lungs and brain, lead to seizures and can rapidly be fatal.
Signs can include excessive panting, disorientation, wobbly walking (ataxia), vomiting, difficulty breathing, purple tongue and gums, collapse and seizures. Patients require active cooling, intravenous fluids and supplementary oxygen. Severe cases may even require sedation or an anaesthetic if the are distressed or require a tube placed into the trachea to keep the airways open.
If you notice signs of heatstroke in your animal companion, or are concerned, please call your vet for advice. If they are deteriorating take them straight to a close vet or emergency centre. The quicker treatment is started the better the chance of a happy outcome.
Remember our wildlife can be affected too. Consider placing bowls of water around your garden for our wildlife friends.
Phone β (08)6399 7276
Website bookings - https://www.perthpetvet.com.au/Bookonline.aspx