Summer is official today, and high temperatures have already hit our area. Heat is not the greatest ally of our pets, so it is necessary to pay special attention during hot days.
Dogs don't sweat like humans, and can easily overheat, leading to heatstroke and a number of serious health problems, and even death. Because of this, Cuko.me brings you signals that warn of the danger of this problem.
Wheezing
Dogs expel heat through their paws, but also by breathing harder. Difficulty breathing also has phases, so it is important to monitor your dog's behavior.
A dog that is hot will open its mouth a little at first, and as it warms up, it will open its mouth more and breathe deeply. The tongue then swells and the dog holds it to the side. This is practically the last stage before heat stroke, so it is very important that you cool down your dog immediately.
Excessive secretion of fluid
If your dog is drooling excessively, this is an indication that he has a temperature problem.
Excessive discharge from the mouth is a dog's defense system in case of high temperature.
Frequent rests and lying down
You walk your dog during the summer period, and he lies down every now and then to rest? A clear sign that the dog is affected by the weather and needs immediate cooling and rest.
Carry water with you, so that the pet can refresh and rest at any time.
Fast and irregular heartbeat
A rapidly beating heart, as well as an irregular heartbeat during heat, is another sign that the dog has "overheated". A racing heart is the body's attempt to pump as much warmed blood as possible to the extremities and away from vital organs, where it can do damage.
If this happens to your dog, take him to the vet immediately.
Sun and burns
High temperatures bring the danger of burns. This is especially true of dogs' paws. The pads on their paws can thus burn during a walk, especially on sand or asphalt.
Check the warmth of the surface your pet is walking on by placing your hand on the floor. If you can't keep your hand on the mat, it's too hot for your dog.
During the summer, experts advise you to walk your pet on the grass as much as possible.
Driving with a pet
Summer also means more outdoor activities. If your pet goes on a trip with you, be sure to provide him with water and a place to rest in the shade.
Mountaineering and longer walks at higher temperatures bring dangers, because dogs cool themselves by panting. When breathing only hot air, it is much more difficult for a dog to cool down.
Therefore, depending on where you plan to spend the day, it is sometimes better to leave your pet at home.
Also, should we mention that leaving a pet in a car during the summer is one of the biggest dangers to their health, and that fatal consequences can occur after just a few minutes spent in a closed car?
How to prevent heat stroke?
As with all dangerous things in life, prevention is the best medicine. The dog should therefore have access to fresh water, as well as shade. NEVER leave your dog in the car, even with the windows down, as the temperature quickly reaches levels that cause problems for our furry friends.
If you have flat-nosed dogs, like pugs or bulldogs, consider their unique anatomy, which makes hot weather harder for them to fall on.
Consult your veterinarian for longer walks and trips, in order to receive additional advice that will help both you and your pet enjoy your vacation.
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