Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs and How You Can Prevent It

Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs and How You Can Prevent It

Extreme heat can cause a lot of problems to canines. One of the main issues that fur parents deal with or worry about is heatstroke. It can be a bit dangerous if you fail to address the issue quickly. It’s a bit tricky to spot signs and symptoms of heatstroke in dogs. Veterinarians highly recommend paying close attention to your dog in order to quickly assess his or her condition. 

Below is a list of the key symptoms you need to look out for so you can prevent heatstroke especially during the hottest days of the year.

Signs and symptoms of dog heatstroke

Heatstroke happens when the body generates an excessive amount of heat and fails to cool down quickly. It can happen to any dog breed, but sometimes, there are predisposing factors that can increase the risk of this health condition. These factors include:

  • Excessive physical activity
  • Your dog is brachycephalic
  • Your pooch is very hyperactive
  • You have an overweight dog
  • The fur of your dog is quite thick

If your dog meets any of the criteria listed above, then you must be extra vigilant, especially during the summer season. Keep your dog well hydrated and make sure to allocate enough hours to take a break in between playtime. If your dog doesn’t meet any of the predisposing factors above, pay attention to the following signs and symptoms of heatstroke in dogs:

  • Excessive drooling
  • High fever
  • Increased palpitation
  • Muddy-looking mucous membrane
  • Fast and loud panting
  • Weakness or dizziness

Treatment and prevention of dog heatstroke

Heatstrokes in pooches are very common but are preventable especially if you are a responsible pet owner. To do that, you need to quickly and effectively assess whether your dog is suffering from heatstroke. Also, you should be wary of the heat. If it’s too hot to play outside, keep your dog in.

If you fail to recognize and address heatstroke in dogs, your pooch may suffer a lot. It can even result in death. As such, when the weather gets too hot and humid, you definitely need to be more aware of your fur baby’s wellbeing. If you observe any of the key signs and symptoms above, start doing first aid.

  • Transfer your pet to a cooler place.
  • Allow him or her to rehydrate by giving a few sips of water every now and then.
  • Help the body cool down by giving him a cool sponge bath.
  • Take your pooch to the nearest veterinary clinic

It’s important to understand that heatstroke in dogs should always be considered an emergency. Once you take your dog to the vet, they can provide him or her with the most appropriate medical treatment.  

Sploot View: Keep an Eye Out

Prevention is always better than cure. During the hot days of the year, don’t forget about the risk of heatstroke in dogs. The key to your dog’s welfare is in your capable hands. Use the tips provided to you above whenever you take your pooch out for a walk or when he or she does a rigorous activity during summer.