05/13/2025
With summer approaching, please be on the lookout for these signs of heat stroke in your pet.
Signs of heatstroke in dogs include
excessive panting, drooling, bright red gums, and a fast heart rate. Other signs may include lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and collapse. It's crucial to recognize these symptoms and act quickly to cool your dog down and seek veterinary attention.
Early Signs:
Excessive panting: Panting is a dog's primary way to cool down, so excessive panting, especially when not exercising, is a key indicator.
Drooling: Excessive drooling, often thick and sticky, can accompany excessive panting.
Bright red or pale gums: Normal gums are pink. Bright red or pale gums can indicate heatstroke.
Fast heart rate: The heart beats faster to circulate blood to the skin and help dissipate heat.
Restlessness or agitation: Dogs may become restless and anxious, pacing or moving around frantically.
Difficulty breathing: Dogs may have trouble breathing, especially flat-faced breeds.
Advanced Signs:
Lethargy: Dogs may become sluggish, weak, and unable to move normally.
Vomiting or diarrhea: These can be signs of the body struggling to cope with the heat.
Seizures: In severe cases, heatstroke can lead to seizures.
Collapse: A dog may collapse and lose consciousness if the condition progresses.
Uncoordinated movement: Dogs may stumble, lose balance, or have difficulty walking.
Muscle tremors: Shaking or trembling muscles can be a sign of heatstroke.
Hematemesis: Vomiting blood can also occur.
Dehydration: Signs of dehydration, such as dry gums or sunken eyes, may be present.
