Pets can get heat stroke or heat exhaustion very quickly in the summer, and if you don’t notice the warning signs quickly enough, the consequences can be deadly. If your pet regularly spends time outside, in the car, or in a hot house, you should be aware of the symptoms of heat illness. Visit an emergency veterinary hospital if you notice any of these signs of heat illness in your pet:
Early Warning Signs
Catching signs of heat illness in its earliest stage will give you the best chance of saving your pet. Look for these early warning signs:
● Heavy panting
● Noisy breathing
● Trouble breathing
● Excessive drooling
● Red or inflamed gums or tongue
● Faster heart rate
● Vomiting
● Diarrhea
Advanced Warning Signs
If you don’t seek medical attention for your pet, his or her symptoms will progress. Without quick medical intervention, he or she might be at risk of coma, brain damage, seizures, and death. Advanced symptoms of heat illness include:
● Lethargy and fatigue
● Confusion
● Loss of balance
● Inability to walk
● Weakness
● Collapse
● Seizures
● Coma
Why You Should Visit a Veterinary Hospital Right Away
If you visit a veterinary hospital right away, your pet will have access to medical intervention that can save his or her life. A veterinarian can rehydrate your pet safely and lower his or her core body temperature so that the symptoms won’t progress. If you don’t seek treatment quickly enough, your pet can suffer permanent organ damage, brain damage, and death.
Preventing Heat Illness
You can take steps to prevent heat illness in pets. Make sure your pet always has access to a cool, comfortable place to rest. Don’t leave your pet outside unattended, and lock your pet door if you’re going to be away from home for more than 4 hours at a time. Bring water with you when you take your pet on walks, hikes, car rides, or to the park.
If you take your pet to a veterinary hospital as soon as you notice signs of heat illness, there is a much higher chance your pet will survive without lasting illness or side effects.
