Dog Talk August, 2000

IT’S HOT, HOT, HOT!!!

The summer months increase the danger of your favorite pal encountering heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

Warning signs include panting heavily, failure to salivate, having a dry mouth, lying down and looking tired, loss of appetite, staring off into space or having an anxious expression, failure to respond to commands, extremely red ears, a very wide tongue, and/or becoming unresponsive.

The progression of heat stress or heat exhaustion into heat stroke is especially serious. Your pal may show signs of being hot to the touch and may even go into seizures. If this occurs, GET YOUR PAL OUT OF THE SUN IMMEDIATELY. Cool your pal down with cool--not ice cold--water. Fan your pal and try to get him/her to drink. If your pal won’t drink, wet your hand with water and gently coat the tongue, gums, and lips.

Here are some tips when exercising your pal outside:

• Keep sessions short, with plenty of water breaks.
• Have a baby wading pool, sprinkler, or lake available.
• Use ice cubes or frozen treats made of carrots, hot dogs, or chicken. Be creative!