A personal plea RE dogs and heat.

[GenericGamer]

This is a personal plea, from my own experience.


Today I got a call from my mum saying she was worried about one of our dogs. The dog was lethargic, very unresponsive on the couch...hot to touch. These are some of the signs of heat stroke. Although this was clearly minor heat stroke and she soon perked up when I came round (so it was a mixture of missing me - she seems to love me the most and hot weather). Once a fan was on her, she'd cooled down and was back to normal. However, this is just a small hint of what could've turned into a lot worse of a scenario.


I have personally seen a dog die from heat stroke at a vets when I was doing work experience. The dog had been out for a walk during the incredibly hot summer we had, and ended up getting severe heat stroke. As the vets tried to cool the dog down with wet towels and cold water the dog eventually lost brain function - pretty much there was life but no cognitive function...like a vegetable. The dog had to be put down.


So this is my personal plea, if you have a dog, please walk him/her during the cool evenings or mornings! Or if that is not possible try to walk in shaded areas. Always ensure plenty of water is down for the dog too. If your dog is getting warm-hot to touch, don't hesitate to try cool her/him down!


So please, take care during these hot summer days for yourself and your dog (and any other animals too who are prone to heat stroke).


http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+1683&aid=1683


Thanks.

 

[Black Angel]

I don't have a dog, but my parents and relatives do.. so, since I am logged into my facebook account I'll post it there.

Thanks for posting this.

 

[Demon_Skeith]

indeed, during the hot weather a pet owner must watch out for their animal. I say one important thing to do is ensure the pet gets a hair cut if it has too much hair. Another thing is not to dress it in any clothing and keep a eye on it when the weather really gets hot.

 

[froggyboy604]

Indeed, plus make sure A the windows are half-way rolled down, so the dog has cool air, but can't jump out in your car if the dogs are in your car. Parking under a shaded area is also very important.