Signs of a Heatstroke

Heatstroke can be the serious and often fatal result of a dog's prolonged exposure to excessive heat. Below are the signs of heatstroke and the actions you should take if your dog is overcome.

Early Stages:

•    Heavy panting.

•    Rapid breathing.

•    Excessive drooling.

•    Bright red gums and tongue.

•    Standing 4-square, posting or spreading out in an attempt to maintain balance.

Advanced Stages:

•    White or blue gums.

•    Lethargy, unwillingness to move.

•    Uncontrollable urination or defecation.

•    Labored, noisy breathing.

•    Shock.

If your dog begins to exhibit signs of heatstroke, you should immediately try to cool the dog down:

•    Apply rubbing alcohol to the dog's paw pads.

•    Apply ice packs to the groin area.

•    Hose down with water.

•    Allow the dog to lick ice chips or drink a small amount of water.

•    Offer Pedialyte to restore electrolytes.

Check your dog's temperature regularly during this process. Once the dog's temperature has stabilized at between 100 to 102 degrees, you can stop the cool-down process.

If you cannot get the dog cooled down and you begin to see signs of advanced heatstroke, take the dog to the veterinarian immediately.

-Content Credit: http://www.akc.org/public_education/summer_safety.cfm