Hot Dogs!

Summer is here and it’s HOT, HOT, HOT!

Many people can’t endure extreme heat, and most dogs can’t either. Walking, exercising, and excitement all can raise body temperature for people and dogs.

And when it’s hot, your dog’s temperature can rise to dangerous levels. You typically know when you’re overheated, but your dog can’t really tell you when he is in distress. So here are some signs to look for.

An overheated dog may have bright red gums and tongue, excessive or frantic panting, heavy drooling and thick saliva, or labored breathing. Extreme heat exhaustion will cause dehydration which can lead to vomiting or diarrhea and even a seizure.

If you notice any of these signs, immediately take your dog to a cool place and pour cool water on his coat until it soaks to his skin. Wipe down his head and muzzle with cool water as well. Don’t wait until it’s too late, if you do not see improvement take your dog to an emergency clinic immediately.

Always have cool water for your dog, even if you are going on a short walk. There are products that can keep your dog cool such as cool packs and mats, but you can also keep items such as ice packs, towels and spray bottles with you at all times just to be prepared.

And please, don’t think your dog can handle the heat in the car with the windows cracked. When it’s only 80 degrees outside, the interior temperature of the car can rise to 100 degrees within 10 minutes. When it’s 90 outside, the interior will hit 115 degrees in the same 10 minutes. Your dog will not survive these temperatures for long.

When it comes to heat exhaustion, treat your dog like your child. Don’t let your dog get overheated, and if he does be quick to cool him off – or like Oden staying cool with his “popsicle”. He will thank you for it and be one of many Happy Dogs In Happy Homes!

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