[Updated July 20, 2023]
Do you know the signs of heat stroke in dogs?
I’m glad I knew them years ago, when Hobbes joined our family on a beautiful September weekend. A few days later it was in the 70’s with high humidity. Hobbes was chasing a neighbor’s dog and having a great time. In less than 10 minutes he was panting rapidly, his tongue was bright red, and he was foaming at the mouth!
Since I recognized the signs of heat stroke in dogs, I immediately took him out of the yard, because he wanted to keep playing. I started doing Tellington TTouch® ear slides on him, stood him in cool water, and hosed him down with cool water. (Note: I learned since then NOT to hose down on back. It can cause severe heart problems. Use cool water on the under belly.) Fortunately for us, he responded quickly and was fine. Since then he overheats quickly and doesn’t like the heat! He chooses shade every time!
The signs of heatstroke in dogs are:
- Rapid panting
- Bright red tongue
- Dark red gums that turn blue or grey
- Rapid heartbeat
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
- Thick saliva
If your dog is showing signs of heat stroke:
- He may need immediate veterinary care. It can save his life!
- When in doubt, go immediately to the vet because the situation can change quickly.
- Move the dog to a cool spot. If available, move the dog into air conditioning or a shaded area.
- Gently spray the dog with cool, not cold water.
- A dog’s normal rectal temperature is between 100 and 102.5F. If your dog’s temperature is higher contact a vet immediately!
- On the way to the vet, do Tellington TTouch® Ear Slides to calm the dog, regulate its body temperature, and to keep him out of shock. Very lightly stroke the ear from the skull to the tip of the ear with one hand as you support her head with your other hand. Stroke one ear at a time. For large ears, after one slide ll move your fingers to another area of the ear.
- Exhale to calm yourself! Your dog picks up your stress.
Remember many of our dogs and cats wear a fur coat during the summer. Also dogs with short snouts are also susceptible to heat stroke. Some medications make dogs more prone to heat stroke.
Even cats can get over heated. Be sure your cats have a cool place to escape the heat.
When in doubt, go to your vet immediately. Exhale and do TTouch Ear Slides on your dog while on the way to the vet.
This is the information I really want to know. I will take note of this since I have lots of dogs in my house and I want to prevent them from suffering from that condition.