Warm weather can bring lots of fun outdoor activities with your pet. It can also bring dehydration and heatstroke if owners are not mindful of weather-related animal care. Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital is located in Surrey, British Columbia. We can help if your pet has been affected by either of these warm weather conditions. We strive to provide the best animal care in Canada. Below is some useful information on how dehydration and heatstroke can affect your pet.
Dehydration
Dehydration is a condition that happens when the body loses more water than it takes in. Pets lose water constantly through urinating, panting, breathing, and even through their paws.
Pets may become dehydrated for many reasons such as heatstroke, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or not having enough water. Signs of dehydration are:
- Panting
- Loss of skin elasticity (when you tug on the skin and it doesn't snap back)
- Dry nose
- Loss of appetite
- Sunken eyes
- Fainting
If your pet has these symptoms, give them small amounts of water and call your local animal hospital. The vet may need to give them special fluids. The best way to avoid dehydration in your pet is to keep plenty of fresh water out. If your pet goes outside in warm weather, it will need extra water.
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition where the body's temperature increases to dangerous levels. Hot weather is not the only cause of heat stroke. Leaving your pet in a poorly ventilated space ( like a car) or exercising too long in warm weather can lead to it. Other factors include:
- Weight
- Breeds with flat faces
- Thick coats (ungroomed)
- Very old pets
- Pre-existing conditions (lung or heart disease)
- Panting
- Drooling
- Pacing, restless, searching for water
- Red gums or tongue
- Vomiting
- No energy
- Access to fresh water
- Well ventilated rooms
- If outside, make sure they have a shaded area
- On hot days, limit exercise and walks to early morning and late evening
- Never leave them in a hot room or car (open windows, put on a fan)
- Keep them properly groomed
Early signs of heat stroke include:
If your pet has these symptoms, put them in a cool room and offer small sips of water. Place a cool cloth on them. Call your vet for further instructions.
Some tips to avoid heat stroke in your pet are:
Schedule an Appointment with Our Veterinarian in Surrey, British Colombia, Canada
If your pet needs help with dehydration, heat stroke, or anything else, our caring and experienced professionals at Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital are here for you. Your pet's health is our top priority. Call us today at (604) 536-3131 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
