Dogs can easily become overheated on hot, sunny days.
Dogs cannot tolerate too much heat. Their fur, which covers their entire bodies, prevents them from sweating. The largest surface not covered with fur is their paw pads -- which explains the damp paw prints you might find on the sidewalk on hot summer days. Because your dog sweats so little, it is important that you know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke and treat them if they occur. Knowing what to do when your dog gets hot and taking immediate action can save its life. An overheated dog is a medical emergency.
Instructions
1. Remove your dog from the heat immediately upon suspicion of heat exhaustion or stroke. Put him in the shade, in an air-conditioned car, or inside an air-conditioned house.
2. Use a cool, wet cloth to moisten your dog's face and paw pads. Doing so will allow evaporation to occur and the heat to dissipate. Offer your dog cool water to drink.
3. Immerse your dog in cool water, thoroughly wetting his coat, as soon as it is possible to do so.
4. Use a well-lubricated rectal thermometer to check your dog's temperature every five minutes. Your dog can be moved safely when the thermometer indicates a temperature of 103 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
5. Allow your dog to shake off excess water, then allow his coat to dry naturally.
6. Bring him to the veterinarian for further treatment even if you think you have addressed the problem. Complications from being in extreme heat includes brain damage.
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