15/07/2022
I've seen my fair share of dogs with heatstroke from my time in veterinary practice, and the thought of what lies ahead for some dogs, vets and nurses next week makes my heart sad.
I'm not going to tell you what the signs of heatstroke are, you've been rammed with those. And that's too late really.
(Though please don't squeeze lemon juice down your dogs throat. That's an aspiration risk.)
Pre-heatstroke signs. The red flags your dog is beginning to struggle:
🥵 ❌ WALK REFUSAL
Stopping is a choice and it is communication. Listen to your dog and pay attention to the context the behaviour is occurring. If they're stopping more than once on a walk on a warm day, consider if it's time to head on home.
🥵 👅 SPATULATE TONGUE
The tongue becomes elongated and wider at the bottom and may curl up (kinda like the big dipper), wrinkles may be visible in the tongue. Spatulate tongue occurs particularly when a dog is stressed, but may also occur if the dog is overheated and panting heavily to cool down his whole body. Look at the whole context & all of your dogs body language for a clear picture.
🥵 🎾 RELUCTANT TO PLAY
If your ball obsessed pooch suddenly decides to run off and lie down with the ball, that's a big clue they're possibly not up for a run in the heat. If you keep throwing, they'll probably keep chasing despite this, so it's best to take heed of this one.
🥵 😮💨 EXCESSIVE SHALLOW PANTING
Dogs cool off by panting, though rapid fire excessive panting (especially if paired with spatulate tongue) is a sign something is very wrong for your dog. Find shade, offer water, head home & monitor your dog.
🥵 🏖 LYING DOWN IN SHADE
Dogs are smart and will find ways to help themselves out when required. If your dog is choosing shade, that behaviour has a function and a purpose. Take note and make adjustments for them.
🥵 🙉 DISENGAGING FROM YOU ("STUBBORN"?)
If your dog is suddenly ignoring all of your known cues, turning their head away as you call them while they're lying in shade, or trying to pretend you're invisible when you're trying to engage them in another round of fetch - consider the message. They are not stubborn. Disengagement is communication and one of very few ways they have to tell you they're not comfortable with your request.
🥵 🐌 SLOWING DOWN
If your pooch starts moving like a land snail, don't tug them along. Consider the function and purpose of the behaviour, take a break, offer shade and a drink and look for other early signs they're struggling. Consider calling it a day and heading home.
These signs all come before the more serious signs. We know how dangerous heat stroke can be, you don't need me to reiterate that. Keep 'em cool, keep 'em safe.