How to Prevent Heat Stroke in Dogs

Now that summer is finally here, every dog owner needs to know how to prevent heat stroke.

The first official day of summer has come and gone, but unfortunately, the heat remains. While there are so many wonderful things to look forward to in the summer, the heat can put your four-legged friend in danger. Heat stroke is a very real problem for dogs, and all dogs are at risk. In our previous blogs, we talked about the signs of heat stroke, how to treat it and what causes it. Today, our veterinarian in North Merrick will be going over tips for preventing heat stroke.

#1. Make sure that your dog always has water.

Whether you leave your dog snoozing on the couch, outside in the yard or in their kennel, it’s important that he or she has plenty of fresh, cool water available.

#2. If your dog has a higher risk, keep him or her inside or in the shade.

In one of our blogs, we talked about dogs that have a higher risk for heat stroke. If your dog has any of these risk factors, it’s important to take extra precautions to prevent heat stroke and to never leave your dog outside in the sun.

#3. Pay close attention when exercising your dog.

Dogs need exercise, but when it’s too hot, you need to be careful when exercising your dog. Pay close attention when exercising your dog in the heat. If they are showing any of the signs of heat stroke, take them home and follow the heat stroke treatment tips that we gave you in our last blog.

These are just a few of the many things you can do to prevent heat stroke in your dog. Stay tuned for our next blog to learn more.

With summer in full swing, heat stroke prevention is incredibly important.

Whether you believe it or not, your dog is at risk for heat stroke; in fact, all dogs are. Heat stroke is a big problem for dogs and a major concern for dog owners, and that’s why our veterinarian in North Bellmore has been going over all of the ins and outs of heat stroke. Check out our previous blogs to learn the signs of heat stroke, what causes it and how to treat it, and read our latest blog to learn about the heat stroke prevention tips we’ve already covered. Here are a few more things you can do to prevent heat stroke this summer:

#4. Never leave your dog in a parked car.

Did you know that the internal temperature of a parked car on a hot day can quickly get up to 140 degrees and above? Regardless of if you are parked in the shade or not, or if the windows or down or not, you should NEVER leave your dog in a parked car. If your dog can’t come inside with you, leave him or her at home!

#5. Don’t muzzle your dog when it’s hot.

If your dog is wearing a muzzle, it prevents them from panting, which is the only method they have for cooling themselves off. If you don’t feel comfortable taking your dog on walks without a muzzle, walk him or her at night or in the morning before the sun comes up.

Heat stroke is something that all dog owners should be aware of, but luckily, with a little knowledge, it is easy to prevent. Please contact us if you have questions or concerns about heat stroke.