 The Good Dog Food Bank will be participating in this year's show, come on out and see us! The evening is sure to be full of fun, laughter and good times! Tickets are still available! Please contact me directly if you are interested in purchasing tickets...$25 each if you purchase now and $30 if you purchase night of the show...save $$$ by purchasing from me now!
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 Heat Exhaustion and Hyperthermia in Dogs
Dog fur is great protection against the cold but can be a problem in hot weather. This is because, unlike humans, dogs eliminate heat by panting. (Dogs have some sweat glands in the footpads which help with heat dissipation, but only minimally.) When panting isn’t enough, their body temperature rises. This can be fatal if not corrected quickly. What To Watch For Excessive panting and signs of discomfort indicate overheating. However, it is important to be aware of the ambient temperature and take appropriate preventative measures. Primary Cause Any hot environment can cause heatstroke, but the most common cause is careless actions such as leaving a dog in a car on a hot day or forgetting to provide shade to an animal kept outdoors. Immediate Care It is essential to remove the dog from the hot environment immediately. If it is unconscious, make sure no water enters the nose or mouth as you follow these guidelines. Also, do not give the dog aspirin to lower its temperature; this can lead to other problems.
Veterinary Care Treatment will consist mostly of replacing lost fluids and minerals. This may extend to secondary conditions, which your vet will be able to identify. Intravenous fluid therapy and monitoring for secondary complications such as kidney failure, development of neurological symptoms, abnormal clotting, changes in blood pressure, and electrolytes abnormalities are typically recommended in cases of heatstroke. Other Causes Dogs with thick fur, short noses, or those suffering from medical conditions such as laryngeal paralysis and obesity are predisposed to heatstroke. In addition, dogs that enjoy constant exercise and playtime -- such as working dogs (Labradors, Springer Spaniels, etc.) -- should be closely monitored for signs of overheating, especially on hot days. Prevention Heat stroke can be prevented by taking caution not to expose a dog to hot and humid conditions. This is especially applicable for dogs with airway diseases and breeds with shortened faces (e.g., the Pug, Bulldog, Shi Tzu). Also, while traveling in cars, make sure that the dog is well ventilated by placing it in a wired cage or in an open basket, and never, ever leave your dog in a car with the windows closed, even if the car is parked in the shade and the windows cracked! When outdoors, always make sure your dog is in a well-ventilated area with access to plenty of water and shady spots. |
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