Altadena Valley Animal Clinic
2898 Acton Road - Birmingham, AL 35243
|
|
The Heat Is On…And It Can Be Deadly!
Temperatures are rising in typical fashion - a sure sign our hot Alabama summer has arrived. Along with the heat comes the oppressive humidity that saps energy and drives even the best of us indoors for the next few months. As difficult and dangerous as this heat can be for humans, it can be just as risky for the health of our furry friends.
Every summer we treat pets with heat-related illnesses. To help you recognize the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke in your pet, we’ve listed several things to look for and how to provide emergency care.
How To Know Fido Is Too Hot!
Unlike humans, dogs are not as efficient at releasing heat. Instead, they conserve it, and they tend to heat up faster than we do. This can be extremely dangerous because dogs may not show signs of distress until the condition has escalated into an emergency.
Early signs for heat exhaustion or stroke include:
- Excessive or loud panting
- Extreme thirst
- Frequent vomiting
- A bright red tongue and pale gums
- Skin around muzzle or neck doesn't snap back when pinched
- Thick saliva
- Increased heart rate
If symptoms worsen your pet will show signs of:
- Increased difficulty breathing
- Gums that turn bright red, then blue or purple
- Weakness and/or fatigue
- Disorientation
- Collapse or coma
It’s also important to note any inability or willingness to move around. Remember, early detection can help prevent long-term damage to vital organs.
Some dogs are more prone to overheating and heat stroke, especially older, overweight, or brachycephalic (flat-faced breeds). This includes Bulldogs (French and English), Boxers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Shih Tzus, Boston Terriers, Mastiffs, and Pugs. Also, dogs with thick fur and short noses should also be monitored closely during hot summer days.
Treat Heat Stroke Immediately
- Move your dog to a cooler area, either indoors where there is air conditioning or in the shade under a fan.
- Use a rectal thermometer to check your pet’s temperature. Heat exhaustion typically occurs when a dog's temperature falls between 103 and 106 degrees. A temperature above 106 places him at risk for heatstroke. If he's in the danger zone, call your veterinarian immediately.
- If you're near a body of freshwater, such as a lake or a baby pool, let your dog take a dip to cool down. Otherwise, you can use cool, wet cloths or towels to help cool them down. Place your cool wet cloths on the neck, armpits, and between hind legs. You can also gently wet the ears and paw pads with cool water.
- If your pet is conscious and willing to drink, provide cool, fresh water. However, don't force it, as it could end up in the lungs. If your dog can't or won't drink, or can't keep water down, wet the tongue with water instead. Don't feed ice cubes or chips, this could cause the temperature to drop too quickly, leading to shock.
- Get your pet to the vet. If you haven't already done so, call ahead so they can be ready to take immediate action as soon as you arrive.
To avoid overheating altogether, here are some helpful tips.
- Keep your pet indoors during hot, humid days.
- If they must be outside, limit their time in the heat, make sure they have plenty of fresh, cool water, and provide a shady place to escape the sun.
- Keep them off hot pavement. A good rule to follow is…if the pavement is too hot for you to walk on barefooted, it’s definitely too hot for your dog. Their paw pads are sensitive and can burn easily.
- Never leave your pet in a locked car with the windows up and the air conditioning off. Temperatures in a car, even with the windows slightly open, can rise to dangerous levels within a few minutes.
If you suspect your pet is experiencing a heat stroke or heat-related distress, make sure you bring them to the clinic immediately for an evaluation.
Remember, heat stroke is preventable. This summer let’s all make the commitment to keep a closer eye on our pets when they are outside in the extreme heat. You’ll be glad you did!
Sincerely,
Julie Grimes, DVM
|
|
Check out our online store for savings on pet food, toys, and more!
Click the link below to visit the store today!
|
|
*Terms and conditions apply. Must be of the same product, size, and purchased at one time, Ask front desk receptionist for full terms and conditions.
|
OFFERS GOOD THROUGH 6/30/21
|
|
|
|
Yappy Hour: Puppy Socialization!
- New class coming soon!
- (4-week course)
- Click the registration link below to sign up.
Puppy/Beginner Obedience (6-week course)
- Thursday, June 3 @ 7:30 pm
- Wednesday, June 30 @ 6:30 pm
- Instructor: Anthony Rodriguez, CPDT-KSA
- Cost: $275
Impulse Control (6-week course)
- Wednesday, July 14 @ 6;30 PM
- Instructor: Anthony Rodriguez, CPDT-KSA
- Cost: $275
Tricks Time (5-week course)
Shaping Up (NEW)
Please note, everyone in attendance will be required to wear a mask in order to keep everyone safe and reduce risk.
For more information and complete course descriptions, visit our Training website page or to sign up for classes by clicking the REGISTER link below.
|
|
Summer is here and we have just the thing for putting some great fun and exercise into your pet's day - Daycare Barks and Recreation! Whether your furry friend likes to take a dip in the pool, chase a ball, or just run in the yard like they own the place, our daycare playtime is the perfect thing. We make sure they have lots of fun and plenty of cool water to quench their thirst. We also provide a nice shaded area if they just like to sit and get a little rest. For more information and to book their playtime, call 205-967-7383.
|
|
Altadena Valley Animal Clinic | Phone: 205-967-7383 | Fax: 205-967-7395
Email: admin@altadenavalleyanimalclinic.com | www.altadenavalleyanimalclinic.com
(c) 2021 Altadena Valley Animal Clinic
|
|
Designed and Created by Dan Feltham - Providien Marketing Group - Phone: 205.422.0898
|
|
|
|
|
|
|