The last thing any pet lover would want is to have their beloved dog overheat in the Florida sun. Unfortunately can happen very quickly in this climate, and we want to be sure your dog is safe.
Before we head into some of our hottest months of the year, let’s take a look at the warning signs of overheating, and some steps you can take in the event you and your canine are facing this scary situation.
Signs Your Dog is Overheated
Most importantly, understand your dog. Some dogs are simply more prone to this condition, such as dogs with heavy, thick fur, dogs with longer hair, very young or old dogs, working/hunting dogs, and those dogs with short noses and flat faces such as pugs. If it’s hot, realize that dogs are experiencing greater impact than you. Keeping them inside except for short periods of time is best during our hottest months.
- When your dogs are outside, there are numerous precautions you can take to protect them. Provide plenty of water, and make sure they have shady areas available to them to escape the sun’s rays.
- Cooling pads or misting systems will help to keep Fido from getting overheated; a kiddie pool can provide relief and a great amount of fun if your dog is playful! But be careful that the water doesn’t get too hot, or sit too long outside allowing it to breed bugs and mosquitos.
- Exercise your dog early in the morning or at night when it is cooler. This will help prevent them from becoming overheated. Don’t forget to check the pavement if you’re walking your dog, as the sidewalks can get hot enough to burn their paws – and they can retain that heat even after the sun goes down. Take water along on walks in case your pooches need a drink.
- Don’t EVER leave your dog in a car. The temperature inside a vehicle can reach excessive dangerous heat levels in minutes, even with the windows cracked. Even on a comparatively mild day, the temperature can become deadly very quickly.
What are the Signs of an Overheated Dog?
Overheating is a dog’s inability to regulate their body temperature. Unlike humans, dogs have few sweat glands, so they regulate their temperature by panting. But in certain conditions, they cannot keep up – causing them to get dangerously overheated.
Signs to Look for Include:
- Dry mouth and pale gums
- Excessive salivation
- An erratic or rapid pulse
- Acting confused
- Weakness
- Diarrhea/vomiting
- Hyperventilation
- Excessive panting
How to Help Your Overheated Dog
If you notice any of the above symptoms, take quick action in order to help save your dog from a life-threatening situation.
- Get the dog to a cooler area immediately. If you have access to a fan, use it.
- If you have the ability to take your dog’s temperature, be sure that the reading is no higher than 101.5. If your dog’s temperature has gone over that mark, consult with your veterinarian immediately.
- If you are near a pool, or other source of cool water, try and get your pet to get into it. The water will help cool their body temperature.
- Get your dog cool drinking water as quickly as possible. If they won’t drink, try wetting their tongue with the cool water.
- You can use cool, wet towels on the dog to help get their temperature down. These are best used over their neck, under their armpits and in the groin area.
- All of these measures should be followed up with a visit to your veterinarian – or at least a phone call. You want to make sure your dog is adequately taken care of so they can stay healthy and happy.
At Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training, keeping Sarasota and Bradenton dogs healthy and well adjusted is our commitment to you. If you are looking for play care, obedience training, or just great advice, give us a call.
