San Antonio Veterinarian Clinic
Avoiding Heat Stroke in Dogs
One of the biggest fears of any pet owner is that something unexpected may happen. Pet owners often fear that their dog may run away or get hit by a car. Other accidents or illnesses can come on suddenly with animals. And with their inability to communicate as we do, it can be difficult to determine what is wrong exactly. One of the more common problems that a dog may experience is a stroke. If you worry that your dog may have suffered a stroke, a San Antonio veterinarian clinic can help you determine if it has.
Summer Heat Stroke in Dogs
Especially in the summer months when the weather is hot, a dog may experience heat stroke. Just like people, dogs do not do well when the temperature soars too high as it often does in San Antonio. Your veterinarian clinic can give you many tips to be able to help prevent heat stroke in your dog. But what if, despite the prevention, your dog suffers from a stroke?
Symptoms of Heat Stroke
One of the best things an owner can do is to watch for any heat stroke symptoms in your dog. Rapid breathing and a rapid heart rate are some of the first symptoms that a dog will exhibit. If your dog shows these signs, the best thing you can do is bring your dog inside and give him a drink of water. A dry nose and mouth can also be signals that something is wrong.
Taking Your Dog’s Temperature
Taking your dog's temperature can be a good indicator of whether or not your dog is suffering from heat stroke. A dog's average temperature should be somewhere between 101 and 102 degrees Fahrenheit. A temperature difference of just a few degrees can be damaging to a dog's brain. If your dog's temperature reaches 108 degrees, it can even be fatal. Once you have taken your dog's temperature, if it is higher than normal, a trip to a San Antonio veterinarian clinic is in order.
Keep Your Dog Inside
Keeping your dog inside as much as possible during the hot summer months can help to prevent heat stroke. If your dog needs to be outside, having water available constantly is a must. For more tips on avoiding heat stroke, a San Antonio veterinarian clinic can help.