We’ve already had a couple of scorching days here in Boise, and more of those hot temps are coming. Remember our record-breaking 110 degrees in 2018? That was a scorcher for sure.
With temperature increases coming, so too will heat-related injuries. We’re talking about heat-related injuries to pets that are. Here was you need to know to help protect your pooch from possible burn injuries to heat stroke.
Burnt Paws
Every summer, we see dogs come in with burnt paws due to walking on hot pavement or standing in the back of a truck bed. We know it’s never the intention of a pet parent to let this happen, but it does. Even though the pads of a dog’s paw are better protected than your human foot, it’s not close to the protection a shoe provides.
It’s all about reading the queues your canine is giving you. If they start excessively pulling on their leash towards grass, soil, or shade, that’s a clue the pavement is too hot. Dogs will often whine if the pain gets too unbearable.
A great test to make sure the pavement or truck bed is okay for your dog is to put your hand on the pavement or metal; if you can’t keep it there for 10 seconds, the surface is too hot for your pal’s paws.
Heat Stroke
Even when it’s 70 degrees outside, the inside of a car can get up to 104 degrees in as little as 30 minutes. And dogs don’t release body heat the same way humans do. Dogs can only pant to release heat, unlike our ability to sweat.
Flat faced dogs like Shih Tzus, Bulldogs, and Boxers are less efficient and have a harder time trying to keep themselves cool through panting. They are more susceptible to heat stroke then their longer faced counterparts.
A dog at risk of going into heat stroke will most likely show the following symptoms:
- Exaggerated panting
- Rapid heartbeat
- High fever
- Vomiting
- Staring
- Anxious expression
- Warm, dry skin
If you do suspect your dog is going into heat exhaustion or heat stroke, get ahold of your veterinarian, or the closest pet hospital and go over the symptoms your pooch is displaying to see if they need to be seen by the doctor.
Keeping Fido Cool
Keeping your canine well hydrated when you’re out for walk, hikes, or even hanging out in a friend’s back yard is vital.
Make sure there is plenty of shade and grassy areas where your pup can get a little relief from the hot pavement and sun. Maybe your dog likes to play in a kiddie pool or in the sprinklers. Those are great options for helping to keep your pup’s internal temperatures down.
We’re only halfway through the summer, so hotter temperatures are coming to the Treasure Valley. When you’re planning a day in the sun, keep yourself and your cuddly canine well hydrated, around plenty of shade, and off hot asphalt and concrete.
