| Post Office Box 475 701 West Highway 11-E Jefferson City, Tennessee 37760 (1) |
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PREVENTING AND TREATING OVERHEATING/HEAT STROKES
Summer brings fun times for both people and pets, but pet owners should be aware of health threats that accompany lazy, hot days. Heat Stroke This potentially deadly condition is totally preventable. Take the same precautions for your pet that you would for yourself and your family. If your pet is outdoors, make sure there is cool shade and plenty of drinking water available. Even indoor pets can get heat stroke if they are in a space with no ventilation or air conditioning. Do not exercise your pet during the hot part of the day. While you may be able to tell when it’s time to get out of the sun, your pet may keep running and playing until it is overheated. Early morning and evening is the best time for outdoor activities. NEVER leave a pet in your car, even for a few minutes. It is easy to lose track of time while running errands or shopping, and vehicle interiors become hot very quickly. “Snub-nosed” breeds such as bulldogs and boston terriers are much more susceptible to heat stroke. If you own one of these breeds, be extra careful to avoid excitement or physical exertion when it is hot outside. A tired or overexcited dog will have additional difficulty breathing, making heat stroke more likely. Older animals or pets that are already sick are much more likely to suffer heat stroke. If you suspect your pet may be overheated, don’t waste any time. Head to your veterinarian immediately. If you are concerned about your pet’s symptoms, then its condition is probably severe enough to need medical treatment. If you are able to safely call us while on the way, we will be better prepared to treat your pet when you arrive. If this emergency happens during the evening, night, or early morning hours, be sure to call the clinic before arriving so that we will be ready to help your pet. Prompt veterinary care is crucial; heat stroke causes damage to the kidneys, blood vessels, and other organs; and can even lead to irreversible swelling of the brain. The sooner we are able to start IV fluids and life-saving medications, the better your pet’s chances of surviving are. SIGNS OF HEAT STROKE Rapid panting Vomiting Diarrhea Gums that are dry and reddened Shock (animal is not responding to you) |
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