- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Reviewed by Dr. Sarah Nelson, DVM, on July 25, 2022
It’s getting hot out there!
Just like humans, dogs feel uncomfortable when exposed to high temperatures, and untreated heat-related illness can cause permanent damage. Learn the most important health concerns to watch out for in your dog this summer, from heatstroke in dogs to mattress burns and dehydration.
Heat stroke in dogs
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Certain breeds, such as Bulldogs, are more likely to get hot. Credit: iStock / Ivan Pantic
As in humans, hot drunk may cause animal death. Left untreated, heatstroke can also lead to long-term damage in dogs.
Look out for the following symptoms of heat stroke:
- Pale gums and fresh tongue
- Disorientation
- Abnormal breathing (fast and loud)
- Shortness of breath
- High rectal temperature (above 103.5 degrees Fahrenheit, along with other heatstroke symptoms)
- Thick saliva
- Weakness and/or fatigue
- Vomiting often
- Bloody diarrhea
If your dog is experiencing severe symptoms such as vomiting, bloody diarrhea, difficulty breathing, weakness or collapse, it is a sign that the condition is serious and you should take your dog to the vet right away. instantly. If you notice only a few mild symptoms, immediately bring your dog into an air-conditioned home or a shady area in the yard if you can’t get in and try one or all of these methods to lower the temperature. of dogs. :
- Access to water: Make sure your dog has access to clean, cool water to keep your dog hydrated and avoid heat stroke.
- Cool shower: Make sure that the temperature is not too cold as this may shock the system. Run water over your dog’s head (avoid getting water in his ears) and down his body to help cool off.
- Cool faucet: Gently lowering the temperature in a shady area is a great way to bring the temperature down. Make sure that the flow is gentle so that it falls lightly on the dog. A strong stream of water can scare your puppy and cause harm.
Pad Burn in Dogs
Pad burns occurs on the paws of dogs after they walk on hot pavement or asphalt. They can be extremely painful for your dog and may require immediate medical attention.
To prevent these burns, try walking your dog on dirt or grassy paths. Avoid walking your dog on black tarmac, as it is very very hot and can burn the pad immediately. Check the pavement and asphalt before you let your dog walk on it; If it’s too hot to keep your hand or paw on it for 30 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog. You can also use puppy boots to keep their feet protected.
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Dog hiking boots protect JoJo’s paws from hot and rocky ground. Melanie Lewis’s photo
Symptoms of mattress burns include:
- Refusing to walk or limping
- Cushion is darker than usual or discolored
- Excessive licking or biting of feet
- Blisters or redness may be visible
- Missing gasket parts
If you notice these symptoms, seek veterinary help immediately. If this is not an option, keep your dog in a cool grassy area to minimize pain. The condition of the pads should also be closely monitored, as they can easily become infected. Wash your paws with cool water and try to prevent your dog from licking them to minimize infection.
Do not bandage your dog’s paws without consulting a veterinarian, as keeping moisture under the dressing can also lead to infection.
Dehydration in dogs
Both you and your dog should drink plenty of water throughout the summer. Guaranteed Does your dog have a lot of fresh water? to drink, especially when it’s hot.
Early symptoms of dehydration include:
- Comatose
- Loss of appetite
- Dry mouth and gums
- Drooling
Signs of chronic dehydration include:
- Sunken eyes
- Depression
- Skin is less elastic
- Vomiting
- Weak, fast pulse
If your pet is exhibiting Signs of dehydration in dogsProvide clean water and seek immediate medical attention.
More tips to keep your dog comfortable in the summer heat
- Walk with your dog early morning or evening when the temperature is cooler.
- Stick to dirt paths or grassy paths and avoid sidewalks when walking your dog.
- Never leave your dog in a parked car. Temperatures can spike and cause death within 30 minutes.
- Move your dog outside and into an air-conditioned home.
- If A/C is not available, open a monitor window when the dog is indoors and use a fan to let a cool breeze through.
- Make sure your dog has plenty of shade and water if outdoors.
- To try on Make your own frozen food or a joy lick the dog’s bandages.
Keep cool outdoors, and if you have any more tips and tricks to keep dogs safe this summer, do share!
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