06/24/2024
Hello dog owners! Do you know how to keep your dog safe in this crazy heat?
Every dog owner needs to be aware that their dog is vulnerable to varying degrees of heat stress. They should take the appropriate preventive measures, be able to recognize the early symptoms, and know the immediate steps to take if they suspect their dog is suffering from the heat or showing the first signs of heat stroke. As well, if you have a pet sitter or dog walker, make sure they are also aware of these criteria.
It doesn't have to be "hot" for your dog to suffer from heat stress; factors like exercise, age, physical condition, and breed all need to be considered.
If your dog is overweight, brachycephalic (pug, bulldog, boxer, Cavalier King Charles, Shih Tzu, etc), a senior dog, or a young dog, they are more vulnerable to heat.
Limit your dog's time outside, always have plenty of cool water available for them, monitor them carefully if they are outside alone, and remember that decks and patio pavers hold heat.
Walk your dog when it is cooler out, e.g. early morning or late evening.
Carry cool water with you when you walk your dog and stop for frequent shady water breaks.
Limit the type and duration of exercise to what is appropriate for your particular dog. And remember that just because you are up for a brisk 60 minute walk or 2 mile run doesn't mean your dog is going to be ok with it.
Early signs of heat stress include, but are not limited to:
Seeking shade
Limiting voluntary movement, e.g. not interested in play, food, and are sitting or laying down not wanting to move
Panting excessively and/or difficulty breathing, e.g. uncontrolled panting, tongue hanging long
Note: it is critical to know these early signs of heat stress; if you wait until your dog is vomiting, has diarrhea, or other advanced symptoms, your dog is in crisis and needs immediate medical care.
If your dog is showing any of the early signs of heat stress:
Stop the walk or exercise immediately, and provide water.
Get your dog into shade and/or moving air, e.g. fanning, air conditioning.
Dip their paws into cool water or if available, immerse in a water source e.g. a pool, stream, or hose.
Muzzles restrict the dog's ability to cool down; if your dog wears a muzzle, when safe, remove the muzzle.
Note- this information is in no way intended to replace veterinary advisement or care. When in doubt, if you suspect your dog is in distress from the heat, call your vet and/or get them immediate veterinary care. As well, this list is only a general guide and isn't intended to be all-inclusive; there are other factors, symptoms, degrees, and resolutions related to heat stress.
Sheila Williams CPDT-KA
Learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for heat stroke in dogs on vcahospitals.com -- your trusted resource for pet health information.