Understanding some of the following warning signs of heat exhaustion in dogs can help you act quickly to protect your pet’s overall health.
As summer temperatures increase, our canines are at a higher risk of heat exhaustion. Unlike humans, pets have fewer ways to cool down, making them susceptible to overheating. Understanding some of the following warning signs of heat exhaustion in dogs can help you act quickly to protect your pet’s overall health.
Excessive Panting & Drooling
Panting is a normal and common behavior for dogs, primarily when they are hot. However, excessive panting in pets can indicate something is wrong. It’s typically a sign of heat exhaustion in dogs. Excessive panting with an odd amount of drooling demonstrates that your pet struggles to normalize its body temperature. In particular, open-mouth panting is rare in felines, so pet owners should take this matter seriously.
Lethargic and Weakness Among Animals
Heat exhaustion often makes dogs lethargic. If your typically playful pet is suddenly sluggish, refuses to move, or seems abnormally weak, it’s not good. Your pet may lie down and be unwilling to get up or struggle to stand or walk.
Bright Red or Pale Mouth Gums
Ensure to examine your pet’s gums as a quick health indicator. Bright red gums sometimes signal heat exhaustion, while pale or white gums indicate severe dehydration and shock. Remember, both require immediate veterinary attention. Overall, healthy gums should be pinkish, so any nonconformity from this can mean trouble.
Vomiting & Diarrhea
Overheating can also trigger tummy distress in pets. If your pet starts to vomit or has diarrhea, particularly when shared with other heat exhaustion symptoms, it’s a serious matter. Unfortunately, these symptoms can quickly lead to dehydration, aggravating the problem.
Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat
A quick or irregular heartbeat is a serious symptom of heat exhaustion in dogs. You may notice your pet’s chest rapidly increasing and decreasing or feel their heartbeat palpitating quickly when you put your hand on their chest. This signifies their body is under extensive stress, attempting to cool down.
Support Your Pet’s Wellness at Alexander Animal Hospital
Alexander Animal Hospital is a full-service animal hospital located in Severna Park, Maryland, serving the Severna Park, Pasadena, and Arnold Areas. Our goal is educating clients on the needs of their pets and understanding the importance of individualized veterinary care in order to strengthen the human-animal bond between owners and their pets.
We understand you have a choice when deciding on the care for your pets, and we strive to provide you with unparalleled services including wellness exams, vaccines, lost pet microchip ID, dental care, surgical services, digital radiography, and in-hospital laboratory services and diagnostics. Other highlights of Alexander Animal Hospital are the separate cat and dog waiting and exam rooms, as well as after-hours on-call emergency services.
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