Smart tactics to help prevent heat exhaustion

It is getting in to summer, some tips to help beating the heat!

Beat the summer heat

Summer can be hot and humid, so protecting your pet from heat is important, particularly as heatstroke can be fatal. Humans have sweat glands all over their bodies, but dog’s sweat glands are confined to their nose and the pads of their feet. Dog's reduced ability to dissipate heat, combined with persistently hot weather, can easily result in rising body temperatures and onset of heatstroke. That’s why humid and confined places, or extended periods in the sun, should be avoided. Exercise when it is cooler, for example early in the morning or late at night, is recommended.

Please also be mindful that in summer the ground can become very hot, leading to burns on your pet's paws.

SYMPTOMS

The main symptoms of heatstroke include fatigue, increased body temperature, delirium, loss of consciousness, as well as heavy panting. Drinking water and staying in the shade can help lower the body temperature. If your dog keeps panting, is restless, barks non-stop, and drools excessively, it could be a sign they are suffering from heatstroke. If your dog starts foaming at the mouth, has difficulty breathing, becomes weak, has delirium or a drunken-like gait or movement and starts to lose consciousness, immediate treatment is required otherwise it might lead to coma or even death in extreme cases. In all cases, it is recommended to check if the body temperature is too high (the normal temperature is between 37.5-39.5 degrees Celsius). If it is as high as 41 degrees Celsius, your dog may suffer from heatstroke. Isolated areas of bleeding may also occur.

Remember to take precautions. Death from heatstroke can be very quick once symptoms become obvious.

Information above is just for reference