Did you know? Let’s get into the facts!
Florida is a melting pot of transplants and persons that move into our sunshine state from all around the globe. What may be normal and safe practice of leaving your pup in your car with the windows cracked when you go into Walmart in Maine, is not safe in our Florida heat for your dogs.
In Hillsborough County, FL, and many other counties in Florida, dogs are permitted to live outside. That means all dogs (smushy faced Boston Terriers, Boxers, Siberian Huskies, and German Shepherds alike) can live in 98 degree + temperatures with brachycephalic respiratory systems and double coats, yikes!
We all need to do our part to recognize signs and symptoms of heat distress for dogs locked in cars but also for those that live outside.
7 Signs of Heat Distress in Dogs
1) Change in gum color (bright red or pale white)
2) Extreme drooling or absence of drooling
3) Unsteady gait
4) Dullness and fainting
5) Increased heart rate and respiratory rate.
6) Vomiting and loose bowel movements
7) Shaking and seizing
4 Ways to Prevent Heat Distress in Dogs
1) Ample access to proper ventilation
2) Access to room temperature hydration
3) Well deserved breaks in exercise
4) Access to proper shade
5 Ways Your Emergency Vet Will Handle Heat Distress
Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) explains the aggressive emergency treatment of heat distress in dogs:
1) IV Fluid therapy for monitored hydration
2) Blood transfusions
3) Antibiotics
4) Anti seizure medications
5) Cooling of the internal body temperature
Keep your pets cool to keep those tails wagging!
If you believe your dog is experiencing symptoms of heat distress, please go to your nearest emergency vet immediately, as untreated overheating can lead to loss of brain, lungs, kidney, and liver function as well as death.
Emergency Vets in Hillsborough County, FL,
Blue Pearl – Brandon, FL & Tampa, FL
Fetch Vets Emergency – Brandon, FL
Animal Emergency Clinic – Brandon, FL
Urgent Vet – Valrico, FL
AA Animal ER – Palm Harbor, FL
Veterinary Emergency Group – Tampa, FL
