Health knowledge made personal
Join this community!
› Share page:
Go
Search posts:

First Aid For Dogs - Coping With Summer Heatstroke

Posted Aug 10 2009 2:44pm

The summer heat can be a dangerous time of year for your pet. When we humans get warm we can head for the shade or take off clothing layers. However, when a dog gets overheated there is very little he can do to get cool. Your dog’s fur keeps him warm in the winter and it serves the same purpose in the summer. Because of this, your dog may need first aid during the dog days of summer. Even if you don’t live in an area that gets brutally hot or you dog has short coat, it is a good idea to learn how to give first aid to your dog should he have heatstroke.

As long as a dog has plenty of water, shade and a supply of cool air, it doesn’t matter whether their coat is long or short. As long as you provide a nice cool spot for your pooch, you should not need to worry about heatstroke. But, if you do notice any of the signs of heatstroke, you should be prepared to render immediate first aid. The common symptoms of heatstroke in your dog are excessive slobbering, panting and vomiting.

The first thing you need to do when you notice any heatstroke symptoms is get your dog to a cooler area. Massage your dogs legs to get the blood flowing and try to get him or her to drink water. But don’t let him drink too fast. Cool him off with cool water, just make sure the water isn’t so cold as to shock him. You should try to put him in a tub with a little bit of cool water.

If your dog is unconscious, you need to rush him to the vet immediately. You should still have somebody render first aid while getting him to the vet. Any first aid you perform is better than nothing at all and could safe your pooch’s life.

If your dog spends a good deal of time outside during the summer you can buy a cooling vest for him. These vests can keep your pet cool for an hour or more and is a great investment in your pets health.

Article by Nancy Cope of Pampered Dog Gifts - the place to shop for dog gifts and unique dog toys.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nancy_Cope

ShareThis

Post a comment
Write a comment:

Related Searches