Heat Stroke- Protect Your Pet This Summer
The impact of summer temperatures can never be predicted but there are indications of adverse effects by how our pets react to the scorching heat. One of the most common and most deadly summertime problems is heatstroke.
Heatstroke is an acute condition of your pets’ body. This happens when your pet has produced or absorbed more heat than it can handle. Heatstroke rarely happens indoors, since electronics are available in homes to control the temperature. Heatstroke usually happens outdoors where there is good chance of over-exposure to extreme temperatures.
Your pet, when over exposed to heat, becomes overwhelmed and unable to deal with the rise in temperature. Your pets are incapable of sweating causing them to over heat easily. Let this not be mistaken with a normal fever, where the increase in temperature is caused by an internal infection. Heat stroke can do permanent damage to your pet since panting is a relatively slow way to decrease temperatures. This can lead to stiffness of muscles, dehydration and if untreated, death.
Pet animals like dogs, cats, ferrets and birds suffer from heat stroke. Most mammals will exhibit the same signs of heatstroke.
- fast breathing (panting)
- bright red tongue
- red pale gums
- thick sticky saliva
- weakness
- dizziness
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- shock
- coma (in severe cases)
Treatment must be done immediately when these symptoms manifest.
For Dogs, remove your pet dog from the heated area and bring down his temperature by wetting your pet with cool water and a fan. Be sure to use lukewarm water for pups. Do not use ice-cold water to un-heat your pet. This can cause more damage to your dog. At a temperature of 103F your pet is stable enough to be brought to the veterinarian.
For cats, transfer your feline and rub him down with a lukewarm water to lower his temperature. The thermometer must read 103F, an acceptable temperature guide.
Best prevention of heat stroke is simple: pay attention to daily temperatures. If predictions of a heat wave are imminent, it is best to hydrate your pet and ensure they stay in cool or shady area. If you see your pet is uncomfortable, transfer your pet indoors and provide an abundance of water and a cooling device such as air conditioner or fan. With a few simple precautions we can keep our pets safe this summer.
Susan Miller writes articles for http://www.pet-super-store.com. Pet Super Store specializes in dog beds, elavated dog feeders and other pet accessories. Visit them today for great savings.
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