Heat Stroke and Your Pet If you are a pet owner, you have taken responsibility for the health, welfare, and quality of life of your pet. During summer months, heat stroke claims hundreds of lives throughout our country, especially in southern states. The hot weather you may be experiencing may prove to be fatal for outside pets. If your animal absolutely must stay outside, please keep the following in mind:
*The average body temperature of a dog or cat is between 101 and 102.5 degrees, much warmer than a human.
*Dogs and cats do not sweat; they rely on panting to cool themselves. If they cannot take in enough cool air, their body temperature rises.
*If the body temperature of a dog or cat reaches or exceeds 106 degrees, death or permanent brain damage can result.
*Animals with short or pug noses, larger animals, long haired animals, obese animals, and animals with heart conditions or on medication have a more difficult time cooling themselves.
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If you suspect your dog is suffering from heat stroke, begin treatment immediately. Spray your dog with cool water, especially his armpits, abdomen, groin and neck area. Then, immediately take him to your vet. Turn the air conditioning on and roll down the windows to allow plenty of air flow to your pet. The vet will administer IV fluids or use an ice bath to treat the shock.
The best treatment is prevention! Monitor your dog's activity and limit exercise during the heat of the day. ALWAYS have plenty of cool water and provide shade if you must leave your pet outside. And never, ever leave your pet in a closed car, even with the windows down; five to ten minutes is enough to kill your animal.
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