Your pet can suffer from heat stroke like you can if you don’t take precautions during hot weather. Heat stroke can be brought about by activity as well as confinement outside. The effects can be serious.

Signs of heat stroke are as follows:
Excessive panting (Dogs cool themselves by panting, but panting only works for short periods of time. Prolonged panting endangers the metabolic system.)
Labored breathing that may signal upper airway obstruction
Bright red mucous membranes in the gums or eyes and/or a bright red tongue
Lethargy and weakness
High body temperature
Collapsing and seizures

If you notice any of these signs, get your pet inside and place a cool, wet towel over him or submerge him in cool water (do not use ice). Take your pet’s temperature using a rectal thermometer. Normal body temperature in dogs and cats is higher than in humans (100.5 to 102.5). If the body temperature exceeds 105 F, get them to a vet at once.

To prevent heat stroke be sure your pet has adequate fresh water, shade or shelter, and if possible, allowed to stay inside your home during the heat of the day.

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