SUMMER WELLNESS BULLETIN

With hot temperatures and high humidity, dogs can experience heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Heat stroke in dogs can lead to multiple organ dysfunction and, sometimes, death.

Many people already know enough to not leave dogs in their cars on warm days, but fewer realize that dogs can overheat in 90+ degree weather in less than five minutes.

Dogs with darker coloring cannot be left in the heat or sun as long as other dogs. Unlike light colors which reflect light and heat, the color black absorbs light and heat.

Brachycephalic breeds have more difficulty with intake and circulation of air due to their shorter snouts. Since dogs regulate body temperature largely through panting, those that do not breathe well cannot regulate their body temperature properly.

Here are a few important things to keep in mind:

1. Keep water readily available anytime dogs are outside.

2. Dogs should always have access to shade to get out of the sun.

3. Watch for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Signs include rapid heart rate and excessive panting/drooling, red ears and bright red tongue, pale gums, thick/sticky saliva, stumbling, and lack of skin elasticity (Pick up the dog’s skin around his neck and release it. The skin should pop back in place. In dehydrated dogs, the skin will remain in a ridge and, the longer it stays in that position, the more severe the dehydration). If you see these signs, cool the dog by immersing him in cool water or wetting the paw pads/underbelly/armpits with cool water (not ice water) before a visit to the vet.

Thank you everyone for looking out for your Cell Dogs or any animals in your care!