As we head into hotter weather, please remember that your pets are susceptible to heat related health problems! Any dog or cat left outside during the summer for any length of time needs access to shade and fresh water.
Dogs and cats don’t sweat. Instead, they fluff their fur to increase air circulation. Cats will lick themselves to feel the coolness of evaporating saliva. Dogs will pant. Heatstroke can occur if your pet’s body temperature goes above 102 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures that go above 106 degrees can be deadly.
Signs of mild to moderate heatstroke
- Bright red tongue and gums
- Thick saliva
- Rapid panting
Signs of serious (life threatening) heatstroke
- Weakness and dizziness
- Bloody nose or bloody vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Possibility of coma
If you believe your pet has severe heatstroke, you need to get them to the veterinarian immediately. Take your pet’s temperature with a rectal thermometer (use petroleum jelly for less discomfort) to know exactly how severe the heatstroke is. Call your vet and tell them your pet’s temperature and how soon you’ll be there. If your trip is five minutes or less, bring ice and apply it to his armpits and groin. Run the air conditioner and position your pet in front of the vent to help increase the evaporation of heat.
If your trip is more than five minutes long, you need to try and lower your pet’s temperature at least a little before transporting him. You want his temperature to be below 106 degrees if possible.
- Cool him off! Stick him in a cool shower, or in a tub of cool (not freezing) water. He may be dizzy or nearly unconscious, so be sure to keep his head out of the water. Check his temperature every five minutes to make sure it is going down.
- Brain freeze! Put a cold, wet washcloth on the back of your pet’s neck and head. Place an ice pack (a bag of frozen veggies works) on the washcloth. This will help cool him off but more importantly will help reduce the chance of brain swelling.
- Let him drink. Give him as much cold water as he wants, or even Gatorade or Pedialyte if you have it. The liquid helps him cool off from the inside out.
Watch your pet for shock at all times. If his gums are very pale, he may be in shock. Rubbing a little Karo syrup or honey on his gums can help raise his blood sugar levels.
Your pet may also stop breathing from the shock, or if his throat has swollen. You may need to give artificial respiration or even CPR.