Recognizing Signs of Heatstroke in Your Dog
June 18, 2009 by Paris Permenter and John Bigley
Filed under Safety, Tips
As we write this on another 100+ degree Texas day, it’s easy to imagine getting overheated with even a brief exposure to the afternoon heat. While we recognize the signs of a human who is undergoing heat exhaustion then heat stroke, do we know the signs of heatstroke in a dog?
PurinaCare(R) Pet Health Insurance with Dr. William H. Craig, DVM has just released this helpful list of signs that show your dog could be undergoing a heatstroke.
- Standing listless or lying on its side unresponsive
- Very rapid panting or hyperventilating
- Have thick, ropey saliva hanging from the tongue and mouth
- Gum tissue and lips will be tacky and dry
- Gum color will be blood red in early stage and turn grey-blue as shock sets in
- Seizures or coma occur as the brain overheats
If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, cool your pet’s head and body with room temperature water and take your pet to the veterinarian immediately. If left untreated, it can lead to prolonged hyperthermia and cause irreversible brain and kidney damage.
Even better than recognizing the signs of heatstroke is preventing it in the first place! Next we’ll look at ways to make sure your dog doesn’t overheat.
About Paris Permenter and John Bigley
DogTipper publishers Paris Permenter and John Bigley are a husband-wife team of full-time writers. The couple has authored over two dozen books and 2,500+ magazine articles.
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