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As temperatures rise during the months of summer, it is important to keep your pet safe from the effects of the heat. Many of the dangers of the heat for humans also apply to dogs, such as heat stroke.

Heat stroke is an essential thing to look out for in your pet. Signs of heat stroke include, but are not limited to, excessive panting, staggering, seizures, bloody diarrhea or vomiting, coma, body temperatures of 104-110F, and dark or bright red tongue and gums. Take your pet to the veterinarian immediately if you suspect heat stroke. Use cool water, not ice cold, to cool them down. Offer them ice cubes to lick until you reach can reach the veterinarian. The sooner you can get the dog to the vet, the better! Do not aid cooling below 103F because it might cause hypothermia or cause shock. Even if everything appears to be better still see a vet as soon as possible to make sure all internal organs are ok.

To prevent heat stroke, make sure your pet has access to water at all times. Using a travel bowl is perfect for summer walks or road trips. Even if your dog is only in the car for a short period of time it is important to keep water on hand for them. The LeBistro Automatic Waterer provides a steady flow of water for up to seven days, though it should be checked regularly to make sure there is enough water.

Also avoid exercising with your pet during the peak hours of the day when it is the hottest. Jogging or walking while it is hot out can dehydrate your dog quickly and cause heat stroke. Try to keep walks short and during the early morning hours before it is too hot or later at night after it cools down.

To cool your pet down on a hot day, douse them with the hose in the morning or any other time they need a break from the heat. You can also spray them with a cooling, refreshing coat mist such as the ikaria Cucumber/Mint Coat Mist ikaria Cucumber/Mint Coat Mist. Available in a variety of scents, these sprays help condition the skin and coat, as well as cool the skin.

Remember that heat and pets don’t mix. If you have to leave a pet in the car for any amount of time, leave windows cracked enough to let air circulate and cool the car. Car interiors can reach temperatures of over 120 degrees Fahrenheit; hot enough to kill your pet no matter how short of a time they are in the car.

Sources: Mutt Mart Heat Stroke in Dogs