Heat Exhaustion: The Basics

It is officially hot! I hope you and your pooch are inside, enjoying the AC! It is important to remember that the heat and humidity can take a toll on our dogs health and well-being. Heat exhaustion is a serious threat when the temperature gets up this high.

What is heat exhaustion?
Heat exhaustion is a condition that results from too much heat and sun exposure. Dog's are extremely susceptible to heat exhaustion due to the way their bodies cool themselves. Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke which has serious implications such as brain & organ damage and sometimes can even lead to death.

What are the signs of heat exhaustion?
Watch your dog's behaviour carefully when out in warm weather. If you notice any of the following, move your dog to a cooler place immediately!
* Excessive Panting: A dog panting is similar to a human sweating. It is their way of regulating body temperature. Panting is completely normal, but when it becomes excessive and the dog seems to be gasping for air, it may mean that the dog is unable to cool down.
*Fatigue: Dogs don't understand that it is too hot and will usually play until they drop. Watch them closely for signs of fatigue. When running, a dog's natural instinct is to keep up with their human no matter what, so it is very important to watch for even a small sign of lagging behind.
*Darkening of the gums: Check your dog's gums. They should be pink or whatever their normal color is. If the gums become dark red or purple, it is a sign of overheating.
***heat stroke: Signs of heat stroke include: Weakness, Staggering & Confusion, Fainting, Loss of consciousness
If you believe your dog is suffering from heat stroke you must act immediately to cool him off! Do not wait for veterinary treatment!

How to avoid heat exhaustion:
* Know your dog!!! If you know the normal behaviors of your dog, you will more easily recognize anything out of the ordinary. If your dog is out in the heat and starts to exhibit unusual behaviors, move him/her to a cooler environment.
* Always provide your dog with plenty of fresh, cool water. I like to provide a bowl of ice for my pups to munch on while playing outside. They love it!
* Exercise your dog in the early morning or later in the evening. Keep mid-day exercise short and easy. No marathon sessions at noon!!!
* If you have a long-haired dog, consider trimming their coat during the summer months. Heavy fur coats can trap in heat and make it harder for a dog to keep cool. Don't go too short though as their fur also acts as natural sunscreen!
* Never leave your dog in the car unattended! Even with the windows cracked, the temperature in a parked car sky rockets quickly!!! If you are out running errands, please leave your dog at home in the A/C. He will thank you!

With warmer temperatures, many of our clients have moved their daily doggie run to the early morning hours. We are happy to make accomodations for your dog to ensure they remain safe as they continue their exercise program through the summer months.

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