Preventing Dog Heat Exhaustion

During the summer, pet owners should always keep an eye out for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Below is a brief guide covering the essentials of summer dog health. 

Why Is Heat Exhaustion Dangerous For Dogs? 

Dogs don’t sweat like humans, they pant — but even the most vigorous mouth-breathing isn’t going to regulate heat in your dog’s body on the hottest days of summer. When your dog’s body temperature rises above the normal temperature, they are at risk for heat exhaustion. While this can vary from dog to dog, 103 degrees Fahrenheit and higher are above normal. If their temperature continues to rise and reaches 106 or higher, your pup is in the danger zone for heat stroke. This is of serious concern because at that point organs can begin to shut down and there is risk of heart failure and even death.

Are Some Dogs More At Risk Of Heat Exhaustion?

While all dogs are at risk on a hot day, there are some dogs that should be given extra care -- like dogs who are overweight or elderly. Breed types also come into play, such as dogs with heavy coats or brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced breeds like pugs and bulldogs).

What Are The Warning Signs Of Heat Exhaustion And Heat Stroke In Dogs?

• Less responsive to commands than usual 
• Lethargy
• Excessive drooling
• Glazed eyes
• Rapid heart rate
• Dizziness or lack of coordination
• Fever
• Loss of consciousness

• Convulsions
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Gums or a tongue that turn blue or bright red
• Physical collapse

If your dog does begin to show signs of serious heat exhaustion, take steps to cool them off and get to a vet as soon as possible.

How to prevent heat exhaustion

While most people know not to leave a dog in a hot car, there are other basic rules of thumb to keeping your dog out of danger:

• Limit exercise or outdoor activity on hot or humid days, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
• Have water available at all times. It’s a great idea to carry a travel water bowl like those offered by Portland Pet Food Company. If your dog likes playing in the water, take them swimming or to frolic in a sprinkler. 
• For water-averse dogs, consider a cooling body wrap, damp towels, or a cold pack on the head - but be careful not to overdo it, as it can cause shock.
• If your dog has long hair or a thick coat, maybe get them a haircut for the hot months.
• If you dog seems to be getting overheated, immediately move them to a cooler area, either indoors to air conditioning or in the shade.

A Cool Head Keeps A Cool Pet

As with so many things, they key is to use common sense. When you’re out on a summer day, think what it would be like to be wearing a fur coat. With that in mind, you should be able to make sure your pooch is safe and comfortable. Try repeating this mantra: “shade, water, time” - that is, try to keep your dog in the shade, always have water available (again, get that travel bowl!), and be aware of how long you’re exposing them to the heat. Is that cool with you?

Dogs that are picky eaters love Portland Pet Food Company! We offer a variety of flavors of natural, healthy dog treats and natural, healthy dog food toppings, including gluten-free options. We also have a dog food toppings subscription service available, which makes ordering easy.

Delicious Cat Food, Too
We also have fresh, healthy cat food! Check out our chicken and pumpkin cat food and salmon and pumpkin cat food.