Help Your Dog Beat The Heat
As Michigan begins to heat up we shed our heavy layers and head outdoors with our pets. We take our dogs to the dog park and let them run to their hearts content and throw a tennis ball or Frisbee for hours. Upon arriving home our dogs collapse in thrilled exhaustion for the rest of the evening. If we take a closer look this fun day at the park can take an ugly turn.
Heat Stroke or Exhaustion
Dogs are unable to sweat, except for areas that are not covered with fur, and rely on panting to cool their body temperature. When the mercury rises many animals will retreat to the shade and wait out the hottest parts of day before venturing out for hunting or play. An eager dog that loves to play could easily override the body’s signals that it’s becoming too hot before it’s too late. Signs and symptoms of heat stroke or hyperthermia in dogs should be taken seriously and efforts should be made to cool the body and seek veterinary care as soon as possible.
Easily Recognized Symptoms of Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion
- Panting
- Dehydration
- Excessive drooling
- Increased body temperature – above 103◦F
- Reddened gums and moist tissues of the body
- Producing only small amounts or no urine
- Sudden kidney failure
- Rapid or irregular heart rate
- Seizures
- Shock
Steps to Take When You Notice Signs of Heat Stroke or Exhaustion
- Cease activity and retreat to the shade or air conditioning.
- Use cool, not cold, running water on the body to slowly reduce body temperature.
- Ensure good airflow and don’t cover the body to allow for evaporation.
- Encourage the animal to continue moving to prevent blood from pooling.
- Encourage hydration by offering small amounts of cool, not cold, water.
- Avoid human sports drinks – if your dog refuses to drink try chicken or beef broth to help replace vital electrolytes.
Natural Remedies to Aid the Body with Heat Stroke
- Homeopathic Remedies: Glonoine, Belladonna, and Natrum carbonicum.
- Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils For Dogs: Peppermint Essential Oil (carefully diluted)
- Cell Salts: #4 Ferr Phos 6X for overheating and #9 Nat Mur 6X for rehydrating tissues and addressing water balance.
- Single Herb Tinctures: Slippery Elm and Marshmallow
Ultimately, as responsible pet owners we must monitor our pets for overheating before it becomes a medical emergency. Your pet should have access to shade and cool water on hot days. Encourage your dog to take breaks from physical activity – put the ball or Frisbee away and give them a chance to cool off without distraction. Avoiding heat stroke or exhaustion is always best but fast intervention can mean the difference between a full recovery and permanent injury.
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