06/30/2025
During the summer months pets are as susceptible to life threatening conditions as they are when temps are frigid and below freezing. Every pet owner should know the signs of heat stroke and how to prevent it.
Signs of overheating or heat stroke:
Mild: panting (cats should never pant), excessive drooling, lethargy, agitation.
Moderate: blue or purple colored tongue, gums that are brick red, rapid heart rate, vomiting, diarrhea (possibly bloody), excessive thirst that can't be quenched, temperature above 104 degrees (dog and cat temps are 100-102)
Severe: collapse, seizures, loss of consciousness
Treatment for heat stroke:
If symptoms are severe or pet doesn't start to cool down within a few minutes get to a vet immediately!!
Remove pet from hot area and place in a cool or shaded area
Gently hose them down with cool water or cover them in cool wet towels, especially in non-haired areas like the abdomen and armpits
Offer fresh, cool water (NOT with ice. Gulping ice water may cause shock)
Apply rubbing alcohol to paw pads
Place a fan in front of them
Some pets are more likely to suffer from over heating or heat stroke such as: older pets, overweight pets, brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, Boston Terriers, Boxers), animals with a collapsing trachea, or animals that suffer from asthma.
Ways to prevent heat stroke in your pet: NEVER leave an animal in a car without the A/C on, walk your dog early in the morning or evening, if the animal is outdoors provide shade (a dog house is NOT shade) and plenty of fresh, cool water. Do not take brachycephalic breeds, older animals or obese animals out for extended periods when temperatures are over 80 degrees.
If you suspect your pet is suffering from heat stroke and are not responding to home treatment get them to a vet immediately. The sooner they are treated the most likely they are to have a full recovering without permanent side effects such as paralysis or brain damage.
