Good time to bump this up..
More info on heatstroke
Dogs eliminate heat through panting; however if the temperature of the environment is too hot and humid then panting becomes ineffective.
Normal body temperature is around 38.5C/101.4F. In cases of heat-stroke a dog's body temperature can rise in excess of 41.6C/107F.
Increased muscular effort displayed during excessive panting can also cause a rise in body temperature.
Signs of heat-stroke:
Panting excessively
Anxious behaviour
Very red gums turning blue in extreme circumstances
Salivating
Very rapid heart rate
In cases of severe heat-stroke - collapse, convulsions, shock
What to do if your dog is suffering with heat-stroke:
Seek veterinary attention immediately as it can be difficult to be sure how serious the situation is and urgent treatment may be needed.
Remove the dog from the hot environment
Reduce body temperature immediately
Immerse the dog in tepid water, cooling gradually, using either a shower spray or similar. Then douse the dog in cool water, particularly the head and neck - avoid using ice-cold water; or cover your dog with wet sheets. Use a fan to increase air flow over the dog as this aids cooling.
Allow the dog to drink as much water as he wants in small quantities at a time (if possible add a pinch of salt to the water)
Continue to douse the dog in cold water until his breathing starts to settle
Seek veterinary attention as soon as is safe to do so
Please note
If using a fan to cool your dog be careful of electric wires.
Do not throw cold water over your dog!
If a dog's temperature is not reduced immediately, heat-stroke can be fatal.
Top tips for warm weather
•Your dog should always be able to move into a cooler, ventilated environment if he/she is feeling hot.
•Never leave your dog alone in a car. If you want to take your dog with you on a car journey, make sure that your destination is dog-friendly – you won’t be able to leave your dog in the car and you don’t want your day out to be ruined!
•If you have to leave your dog outside, you must provide a cool shady spot where he/she can escape from the sun at all times of the day.
•Make sure your dog always has a good supply of drinking water, in a weighted bowl that can’t be knocked over. Carry water with you on hot days and give your dog frequent small amounts.
•Never leave your dog in a glass conservatory or a caravan. Even if it is cloudy when you leave, the sun may come out later in the day and make it unbearably hot.
•Groom your dog regularly to get rid of excess hair. Give long-coated breeds a haircut at the start of the summer, and later in the season, if necessary.
•Dogs need exercise - even when it is hot. Walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening. Never allow your dog to exercise excessively in hot weather.
•Dogs can get sunburned too – particularly those with light-coloured noses or light-coloured fur on their ears. Ask your vet for advice on pet-safe sunscreen.
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