Heat Stroke is No Joke!

Sweltering summer days can be deadly for your dog! As temperatures can climb quickly, your dog is relying on you to keep them safe. Follow these tips for a safer summer with your pet:

• Do NOT leave your pet in your vehicle during the summer for any amount of time. If your pet can’t come inside with you, they are safer being left at home.
• Take advantage of cooler temps in the early morning or evenings to walk your dog. As the intensity of heat rises throughout the day, so does the temperature of the pavement.  Your dog can be at risk for not only heat exhaustion in warm or humid weather but also burning their paw pads. Consider a puzzle or enrichment toy on days when the temperature is too hot to go out. 
• Don’t shave your dog’s coat! While it’s tempting to want to shave your dog’s long hair, this can actually increase their risk of sun exposure and make it harder for your dog to cool themselves off.  Their coats are specifically designed to regulate their body temperatures in both hot and cold weather. You can assist by keeping your pet well-groomed and brushed, and offering outdoor water activities such as a wading pool or sprinkler.
• Know the signs of heat stroke! If your dog is exhibiting symptoms, it is vital that you get them to your veterinarian right away.
  • Heavy panting or rapid breathing
  • Bright or dark red tongue and/or gums
  • Excessive drooling, thick or sticky drool
  • vomiting or bloody diarrhea
  • Glazed eyes, staggering or stumbling
  • Weakness or collapse

Stay safe this summer! If you aren’t already following us on Facebook, we invite you to join us there and share how you and your pet are staying cool this summer! You can find us HERE.

~ Sonia