Signs of Heatstroke and How to Prevent Overheating in Dogs

We are in the thick of the notorious Arizona summer and for local pet parents who haven’t migrated, the sweltering heat can pose serious problems for dogs. With their thick coats of fur, dogs are particularly susceptible to heat so it’s important to be aware of the signs of heatstroke. In extreme cases, recognizing the signs and knowing what to do could save your pooch’s life.A Brief OverviewUnlike humans, dogs do not primarily use their sweat gland to keep cool. This means they rely heavily on their respiratory system to regulate body temperature. When a dog’s respiratory tract is unable to get rid of heat quickly enough, it can often result in heatstroke.Commons Signs of Heatstroke• Hyperventilation• Excessive Panting• Dry, Pale Gums• Increased Salivation• Confusion• Weakness• Diarrhea• VomitingWhen a dog experiences heatstroke and it goes untreated, it can result in seizure, coma or even death.Treatment Guidelines for Overheated Dogs1.) Monitor your pooch for signs of overheating Dogs in danger of heatstroke typically exhibit a combination of the symptoms mentioned above. The moment you notice any of these signs, move your pet to a cooler area with a fan.2.) Provide your dog cool, fresh water. Be sure plenty of cool drinking water is available, but avoiding forcing your dog to drink. Never offer ice to a dog experiencing heatstroke as it can cool body temperature too quickly shocking the system.3.) Take your pet’s temperature. A dog’s normal body temperature is 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Moderate heating usually happens at around 103 to 106 degrees, while severe heating typically occurs beyond 106 degrees. Contact your vet or the nearest emergency center and then report your dog’s temperature along with the symptoms he is exhibiting.4.) Cool your dog with wet to towels. Soaking towels in cool water and placing them on your docks neck, armpits and hind legs can reduce body temperature. If outdoors, a pond or stream can help cool your pooch.5.) Take your dog to your vet. If your dog seems to be suffering, call your vet. Alert them ahead of time to his condition so they can prepare for treatment. Your pet may have to receive oxygen, some fluids, and other treatments.PreventionPreventing heatstroke is all about common sense. When your dog is outside, make sure he has a shaded place to rest out of direct sunlight. Be sure to provide plenty of fresh, cool drinking water and avoid playing too hard.

Coping with the Fear and Doubt of Euthanasia

If you are lucky enough to have a special bond with a dog or cat, you’ve probably pondered the fact that their time on Earth will likely be up long before your own. We invite animals into our lives for companionship and to fill our homes with joy and unconditional love. As years pass, we watch them grow, often from puppies or kittens into mature adults. Inevitably, they reach their golden years and, like all living beings, their bodies begin to fail. As we watch their quality of life deteriorate, euthanasia can become a viable option, but it’s an option often filled with fear and doubt.FearThere are many different kinds of a fear a person considering euthanasia for a sick and aging pet can experience. There is the fear of not having a best friend and companion by your side to share this life with. There is the fear that the passing of that special pet will serve as a painful reminder of your own mortality. Worst of all, there is the fear that the choice you are making, whether to euthanize or not, is the wrong choice.Unfortunately there is no panacea that addresses all of the fears associated with euthanasia. What is important is that you put the welfare of your beloved pet above any personal fears. Consider how much chronic pain and discomfort they are living with daily. Consult a veterinarian to determine their quality-of-life and to discuss strategies to improve it. Ultimately, setting your pet’s welfare as the focus will lead you to a decision based in love and compassion that should quell some of these fears.DoubtAlong with fear, the decision to euthanize can be filled with doubt. You doubt yourself leading up to the decision or you may feel pangs of regret having made to choice to end the life of a beloved animal. These feelings may be impossible to avoid, but understanding all the facts and knowing your options can help lead you to a decision you can best live with.At Gentle Journey of Scottsdale, we specialize in helping devoted pet parents navigate these difficult choices. In some cases, palliative pet services can improve quality of life. In others, euthanasia is the best option. In either case, we can help you with all the information you need to make this difficult choice. Give us a call at 602-332-7757 or visit us online to learn more about our services.