The Signs of Heatstroke
Here are the symptoms:
- Unusual breathing/panting (rapid and loud)
- High rectal temperature (103 or higher)
- Extreme thirst
- Weakness and/or fatigue
- Glazed Eyes
- Disorientation
- Dark or bright red tongue and gums
- Skin around the muzzle or neck doesn’t snap back when pinched (dehydration).
- Difficulty breathing
- Excessive/Lack of Drool or Thick Saliva
- Rapid heartbeat
- Vomiting/Diarrhea
- Agitation
- Seizures
- Unconsciousness
Things NOT to do if you think your dog has Heatstroke…
Do NOT get the dog completely wet or soak with hose!!!! The temperature needs to be brought down in a controlled slow manner. Cooling your dog too quickly is just as bad as them being overheated. You can get the dog in shade or AC, place a cool damp cloth on the dog’s belly and inside legs and change every few minutes with a new cool towel.
Do NOT try to force water, do NOT leave the dog alone, do NOT assume you can treat heatstroke at home. Having been a vet tech myself for over 15 years I have seen many dogs die from heatstroke. If the dog is showing signs of heatstroke the ONLY safe place for the dog to recover is at the vet.
DO Contact Your Vet Immediately if You Feel Your Dog has Heatstroke!
Website: www.prodigypups.com Phone #: 320-316-3787 Email: dogtraining@prodigypups.com
