How to spot the signs of heat stroke in dogs

SAN ANTONIO – On hot and sunny days, there’s nothing better than enjoying the sun with your four-legged friend. While Texans can be equipped to handle heat, unfortunately dogs are not.

Heatstroke in dogs can be fatal if not treated properly, and missing the signs and symptoms could put your puppy at risk.

Dogs cannot regulate their body temperature like humans do, according to the American Kennel Club. They can only regulate their body temperature by panting and sweating through their paws, the AKC said.

The AKC said that when the dogs’ body temperature reaches 105 degrees Fahrenheit, they could suffer from heat stroke.

According to the Texas SPCA, the main cause of heatstroke in dogs is leaving them in hot cars.

Even leaving a dog in the car on an 85-degree day with the windows down can still get indoors up to 120 degrees, the SPCA said.

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Symptoms of heatstroke to watch out for include “heavy panting, excessive drooling, bright red gums and tongue, skin warm to the touch, and an increased heart rate,” the AKC said.

If your dog is suffering from heatstroke, there are ways to prevent the symptoms from getting worse.

AKC has provided these tips to help treat a dog with heatstroke:

• Take your dog to a cool, ventilated place as soon as possible.

• Spray or sponge your dog with cold or lukewarm water on the underside. Do not use cold water and never take the dog out in a cold bath.

• Use a fan to blow cool air over it.

You should take the dog to the vet as soon as you cool him down if you are unable to cool him down.

The AKC said making sure dogs have access to cool water, shade, and not exercising them during high temperatures can help prevent heatstroke.

Learn more about KSAT:

Here are some ways to protect yourself from the summer heat and avoid heat exhaustion.

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