On sunny days, dogs always accompany us with vitality, playing and frolicking together. But once the summer is scorching, the heat is unbearable, and dogs also face the risk of heatstroke. At the moment when it is discovered that a dog may suffer from heatstroke, every owner is filled with anxiety and concern for their dog. Understanding how to deal with heat stroke in dogs is the key to safeguarding their health.
The causes and environmental factors of dog heatstroke
Dogs do not have well-developed sweat glands like humans, and mainly dissipate heat through foot pads and breathing. Their heat dissipation ability is greatly reduced in high temperature and high humidity environments. For example, on a hot afternoon, if a dog is left alone in a car without air conditioning and the temperature rises sharply in a small space, the dog is prone to heatstroke; Or taking your dog out for long periods of exercise under the scorching sun without timely hydration can also put your dog at risk of heatstroke. Do you still remember last summer, my neighbor's golden retriever spent too much time outdoors, and when he got home, he had an abnormality. It turned out to be heatstroke, which made everyone realize that heatstroke is not far from dogs.
Identify symptoms of heatstroke
Early identification of symptoms of heat stroke in dogs is crucial. When a dog suffers from heatstroke, the most obvious symptoms are rapid breathing, thick and heavy panting, and rapid abdominal movements. Their tongues will stretch out very long, saliva will be secreted in large quantities, and even uncontrolled drooling may occur. The mental state can also undergo significant changes, with previously lively dogs becoming lethargic, with dull and lifeless eyes, and no response to their usual favorite toys and calls. Some dogs may also experience vomiting, diarrhea, unsteady walking, and unstable standing. Once these symptoms are detected, it means that the dog is in danger and the owner must take immediate action.

On site first aid
When a dog is found to have heatstroke, the first thing to do is to quickly move the dog to a cool, well ventilated place, away from high temperature environments. Wet towels or ice packs can be applied to the head, neck, abdomen, and foot pads of dogs to help them cool down quickly, but it is important to avoid direct contact with the skin to prevent frostbite. At the same time, blow a fan towards the dog to accelerate air circulation and promote heat dissipation. If the dog can still drink water on its own, it should be fed water in small amounts multiple times, but do not force the dog to drink water to avoid coughing.
I once encountered a little teddy bear suffering from heatstroke. Upon discovering it, its owner immediately carried it to an indoor air-conditioned room, constantly wiping its body with a damp towel and gently blowing it with a fan. Under the urgent handling of the owner, Teddy's condition gradually stabilized, buying valuable time for subsequent medical treatment. This also shows us that proper on-site first aid can save a dog's life at critical moments.
Seek medical treatment
After initial first aid, the dog must be taken to a pet hospital as soon as possible. The doctor will conduct a comprehensive examination and professional treatment based on the specific condition of the dog. May supplement fluids and electrolytes through intravenous infusion to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances; For dogs with high body temperature, doctors will take more professional cooling measures to ensure that the dog's body temperature returns to normal. At the same time, doctors will closely monitor the dog's cardiovascular function, liver and kidney function, etc., to prevent complications.
Daily prevention
Preventing heatstroke in dogs is far more important than treating it afterwards. Try to avoid taking your dog out during the hot summer period from 10am to 4pm. If you have to go out, bring sufficient drinking water, choose a cool route, and wear a sun hat or breathable sun protection clothing for your dog. At home, it is important to ensure that the dog's living environment is well ventilated and has air conditioning or a fan to regulate the temperature. You can also prepare some pet supplies for heatstroke prevention and cooling, such as ice pads, heat dissipation pads, etc.
Dogs are important members of our family, providing us with endless joy and companionship. When facing emergency situations like heatstroke, we must use scientific methods and full of love to protect their safety. Every owner should always pay attention to their dog's condition, take preventive measures, and ensure that their dog can live a healthy and happy life even in the hot summer.