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| BATON ROUGE – Now that summer is here, it’s good to remember that some pets require special care to avoid heatstroke. Dogs cannot tell you when their temperatures rise, and it is our responsibility to ensure that our pets have sufficient shelter from the sun, adequate water to drink and a way to cool off as the heat rises. Take care when leaving your pets outside during the day, and never leave your dog in a hot car, even for a few minutes. A dog’s body temperature is normally between 101 and 102 degrees Fahrenheit. They regulate their body temperature by panting; dogs do not sweat like people. Panting expels the heat. If the heat is not expelled fast enough, the body temperature rises. A rise of three degrees to a temperature of 105 degrees Fahrenheit can cause the dog to have problems keeping up with his body’s demand for oxygen. When the temperature hits 108 degrees, the internal organs can start breaking down at a cellular level. Early signs of heatstroke are rapid breathing, dry nose, rapid heart rate and gums that leave a healthy color for dull, grayish-pink or red. This is an emergency! If your dog exhibits these symptoms, move the dog to a shaded area, soak the coat in cool water and get him to a veterinarian immediately. These symptoms can be followed in minutes by collapse, seizure, coma and death. The most important aid in heatstroke is prevention, so please ensure that your outdoor pets have plenty of shade and water and avoid leaving your pets in the car, even with the windows down. Make sure that your pet has a tip-proof bowl, so that he can’t spill his water bowl while you’re not at home. Lastly, plan walks for the early morning or late evening hours when the temperature is relatively low. With a few minor precautions, you and your pets can have a safe and happy summer. |
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