With hot weather upon us, it is important for pet owners to pay special attention to their pets, horses, and farm animals.
Owners need to provide adequate ventilation, shade, and water to their animals. Pets should never be left in hot cars or airless rooms.
Heat stroke is a very real threat to animals, and can be fatal even with prompt treatment. Very young and very old animals, animals with health problems, overweight animals, and those that are snub-nosed are more susceptible to heat stroke as are those animals that have suffered from heat stroke in the past.
Signs of heat stroke in your pet may include:
This pup has the right idea to cool off on a hot day!
- excessive panting
- elevated body temperature
- dark or bright red tongue & gums
- sticky or dry tongue & gums
- staggering
- stupor
- seizures
- diarrhea &/or vomiting
In large animals, signs of heat stress may include:
- restlessness
- stumbling
- increased heart rate and salivation
- panting
- collapse
- convulsions
If you see these signs in hot weather get your animal out of direct heat and get it wet, either with wet rags, a hose, or in a wading pool. Call your veterinarian for further assistance and advice.
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