Mary Allen
Like most people, our four-legged friends love summer. But the summer heat can be life-threatening for the dog. Here is advice for what you as a dog owner should think about and what to do if the dog shows signs of overheating.
The summer heat can cause dogs to overheat. Dogs do not sweat like we humans to cool down the body. To bring down the body heat, they pant and prefer to go to shady places.
– Remember not to exercise the dog when it is warmest, but go out on cool mornings or later in the evening when the heat has subsided. If the dog is affected by heatstroke, it is first and foremost necessary to interrupt the temperature rise. Then you should slowly help your dog to regain normal body temperature, preferably with the help of cooling wet towels, says Odd Einar Bruem, head of animal insurance at Svedea.
Heatstroke Can Cause Serious Injuries
Summer after summer, many dog owners seek veterinary help after their dogs have overheated in trapped cars. Heatstroke can cause serious damage to internal organs and lead to the death of several dogs each year.
– Cars can be a death trap for dogs, as the temperature can reach over 60 degrees. If for some reason you have to leave the dog in the car for a short while, park in the shade if possible. You must also make sure that there is good ventilation and that the dog has cool water to drink. But a general admonition is to never lock your dog in the car on a hot summer day, says Odd Einar Bruem.
Symptoms of Overheating in Dogs
- The dog gasps (hisses)
- The dog drools
- The dog seeks out shady and cool places
- The dog gets a high pulse
- The dog wobbles and collapses
- Respiratory problems
- It can vomit and get diarrhea
Do This If the Dog Gets Overheated
- If the dog shows severe symptoms – take it to a veterinarian immediately.
- For milder symptoms – take the dog to a cooler place, give it water and cooling towels that you soak in water, or shower the dog in lukewarm water.
- Remember not to cool the dog down too quickly or too much – it can aggravate the condition.
- Always contact a veterinarian to ensure that the dog is on the road to recovery.