Summer is here...

As summer arrives, the heat in Florida and the South can be intense. While most pawrents are vigilant during the hotter months, it's always beneficial to refresh your knowledge on heat exhaustion and heat stroke prevention to ensure your dog's safety.

Prevention Tips

Be an Early Riser: Morning walks are cooler, though still humid. Early hours are ideal for keeping your dog safe from the day’s peak temperatures.
Watch Pavement Temperatures: Even in the evening, pavement can remain hot. Test the pavement with your bare feet; if it's comfortable, it’s safe for your dog’s paws. Remember, warm pavement can still increase your dog’s body temperature more than cool ground would.
Adjust for Your Dog's Unique Features: Pets with white ears are more prone to sunburn and skin cancer, while short-nosed breeds may struggle in high temperatures. Keep their specific needs in mind.
Provide Shade, Cool Water, & Air Circulation: Indoors, air conditioning is key. Outdoors, ensure your dog has access to deep shade, breezes, and plenty of fresh, cool water.
Know Summer Car Safety: Even with windows cracked, a car can quickly reach life-threatening temperatures. According to the Humane Society, an 80°F day can cause your car’s interior to reach 99°F in just 10 minutes. Never leave your dog in a car, even with the AC running, as it can fail unexpectedly.

RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS

HAVE A PLAN OF ACTION

Heat Stress

SYMPTOMS: The dog is thirsty and has increased panting.

ACTIONS:

Move the dog indoors to air conditioning or heavy shade and a breez.
Provide cool water.
Rest.

Heat Exhaustion

SYMPTOMS: The dog doesn't respond to the above and is unable to regulate their body temperature. Panting is heavy and the dog is showing signs of weakness or episodes of collapsing, according to the emergency veterinary practice, Animal Emergency Service.

ACTIONS:

Ask someone to assist ASAP -- You will want someone to call your veterinarian or an emergency veterinarian, describe the situation, and let them know you are on your way.
Begin cooling your dog -- Wet their body (avoid the face) with cool water. Do Not cover or wrap the dog in wet blankets. This will trap in the heat coming off the dog.
Fan your dog -- If you have access to a fan, have it blow on your dog's wet skin and coat to help cool them down.
Get to your veterinarian -- This is an emergency.

Heat Stroke

SYMPTOMS:

Change in gum color (bright red or pale)
Drooling
Dizziness and/or disorientation
Lethargy and collapse
Increased heart rate and respiratory rate
Vomiting and/or diarrhea
Muscle tremors
Seizures

ACTIONS:

Heat Stroke is the most severe of heat-related illnesses and can be fatal even with intensive care from an animal hospital. Do Not Wait. Follow the actions from Heat Exhaustion while you are on the way to your veterinarian or the closest emergency veterinarian.

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Summer is here...

RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS

HAVE A PLAN OF ACTION

Heat Stress

ACTIONS:

Heat Exhaustion

ACTIONS:

Heat Stroke

ACTIONS:

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