Now that we’re solidly into summer, you may find yourself spending more time outdoors with family, friends, and pets enjoying BBQs, swimming, picnics, and more. But with summertime comes hotter temperatures – of which they’re already here!
It’s important that as you spend time outside with your furry friends, you know the symptoms of heatstroke in pets and are prepared if an emergency should arise.
To avoid heatstroke, always offer your pet access to shade and water while outside. If it’s sweltering, bring them inside and allow them to cool off. Never leave your pet in an unattended vehicle!
Signs of heatstroke include:
- Panting, which increases as heatstroke progresses
- Distressed breathing
- Drooling or salivating
- Agitation and restlessness
- Dizziness and staggering
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Muscle tremors
- Very red or very pale gums
- Bright red tongue
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea (with or without blood)
- Mental confusion
- Seizures
- Collapsing and lying down
- Little to no urine production
- Increased heart rate
- Coma
If you notice any of these symptoms with your pet, you must take immediate action. First, bring them inside to start the cooling process. Do not plunge them into an ice bath or submerge them in water to cool them off – doing so could cool them too quickly and cause health problems. As they are beginning to cool off, give us a call to triage the seriousness of their symptoms. If your pet experiences a massive emergency, such as seizures, collapsing, vomiting, or diarrhea, take them to your closest emergency veterinarian right away.
This time of year is a great time to enjoy the outdoors. Knowing the signs and symptoms of heatstroke and what to do if your pet is experiencing any of them will help you and your pet enjoy the outdoors safely this summer!
