02/05/2025
Ok guys, been a while since I posted so thought I would post some info for you all.
This was taken from the latest Veterinary advise for 2025, and as the weather has been hotter than usual for this time of year, I think this will benefit a lot of people and their dogs while it's very hot.
"Heat Stroke" known as Hyperthermia is very common in dogs and can even happen on cloudy days when we think it's safe to be out...
Initially, the pet appears distressed and will pant excessively and become restless. As the hyperthermia progresses, the pet may drool large amounts of saliva from the nose and/or mouth. The pet may become unsteady on his feet. You may notice the gums turning blue/purple or bright red, which is due to inadequate oxygen.
What to Do:
Beginning the process of cooling the pet immediately is extremely important.
Remove your pet from the environment where the hyperthermia occurred.
Move your pet to a shaded and cool environment, and direct a fan on them.
If possible, determine re**al temperature and record it.
Place your pet in a cool or tepid water bath (or in the shower) without submerging their heads.
You may also wet the ear flaps and paws with cool water. Directing a fan on these wetted areas will help to speed up evaporative cooling. Transport to the closest veterinary facility immediately.
What NOT to Do:
Do not over-cool the pet.
Do not cover your pet with wet towels. Most pets with hyperthermia have body temperatures greater than 105°F, and a reasonable goal of cooling is to reduce your pet's body temperature to 102.5-103°F
while transporting them to the closest veterinary facility.
Do not attempt to force water into your pet's mouth, but you may have fresh cool water ready to offer should your pet be alert and show an interest in drinking.
Do not leave your pet unattended for any length of time.
Severe hyperthermia is a condition that affects nearly every system in the body. Simply lowering the body temperature fails to address the potentially catastrophic events that often accompany this disorder. A pet suffering from hyperthermia should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
When the weather is like this and very hot and humid, try avoiding running or walking your dog in peak times of the heat and stay off hot pavements to avoid scalding your dogs pads and burning them.
Walk your dog early mornings or late evenings to stay out of the heat. Remember a dog never died because it missed a walk....
Keep Them Safe
Keep Smart
Stay Calm, Think Dog 🐕 😉
