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Fall Fun For Your Pet

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Fall fun for your pet can include great pet exercise and outdoor pet fun!

We love the autumn season. Cooler weather, beautiful fall foliage, apples, pumpkins and Halloween. What’s not to love? This year, why not include your pet in many of the festive fall activities you yourself love to do. It’s a matter of getting creative and thinking outside the box, and at West Park Animal Hospital, we’re here to help you do just that!

Fall Fun For Your Pet

Pumpkin and apple picking – taking a romp in your nearby apple orchard or pumpkin patch could be great fun for your dog. Just remember to check that the farm is dog friendly before you go. Your dog would also love to help you navigate the corn maze, and taste some apple and pumpkin treats of his own. Bonus: outdoors, fresh air, and exercise for all!

Pumpkin carving – After you bring home your pumpkins, treat your pets to a pumpkin carving party, starring… them! Try your hand at carving your cat, dog, or rabbit, or stick to a paw print. Your dog, cats, and small pets would also love a little cooked fresh mashed pumpkin as a treat – the health benefits abound!

Halloween movie marathon – We bet all your pets love to snuggle up on the couch, and a scary movie is a good excuse to have them under the blankets with you all night. This is a great tradition if your pets get stressed by all the trick or treating hullabaloo. Leave a bowl of treats on the doorstep so you and your pets can snuggle in peace!

Costume party – Your dogs can get in on the fun here. Invite some of your canine friends and have them play games, give treats, and have a contest for the best costume. Make sure everyone is safe by inviting those pups you know well.

You could also host a cat-themed Halloween party. Dress up your cats in their best costumes, and serve cat themed appetizers and cat desserts. Of course, no cat themed party would be complete without a kitty litter cake!

Oktoberfest – although the Cleveland Oktoberfest is over, we recommend hosting your own Oktoberfest themed gathering in your backyard. This way, you can include your dogs in the fun without the stress of taking them to such a big event. Lederhosen and steins are mandatory.

Fall hiking – fall hiking is absolutely gorgeous, and there are many trails to choose from.  Your dog will love to join you for a day of crisp autumn air, earthy smells, and beautiful fall color. Just remember to make sure your dog is protected from fleas and ticks.

We hope you’ve gotten some inspiration from these ideas, and that you’re planning on including your pets in your fall fun. If you have other ideas, call us and let us know what you’re doing!

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Can Clicker Training Change Your Dog’s Life? Quite Simply, Yes.

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Clicker training dogs is a great dog behavior system

Dogs usually know when they’ve done something wrong, but wouldn’t it be nice if we could convey to them exactly when they’ve done something right? With clicker training, your dog has a chance to learn the right ways to do things because you tell them. With the unique sound of a handheld clicker, there’s no second-guessing. Instead, you train your dog to remember the positive actions or behaviors that please you.

Let’s get clickin’!

Reinforce the Good

We all love rewards. Dogs are no exception. They aim to please (most of the time), but sometimes they get confused regarding what’s good and what’s bad. With a healthy dose of patience, a lot of consistent training, and of course, healthy rewards, your dog can be well on their way to A+ behavior.

Focus on the Positive

Marine mammal trainers use whistles because they can be heard distinctly even under water, but clickers for dogs accomplishes the same goal. Behavioral science has proven that rewards are the key to positive changes because the subject believes that rewards will continue so long as the good behavior does.

Not the Opposite

Negative reinforcement backfires in a way that positive reinforcement doesn’t. Clicker training allows for direct communication between you and your dog that is impossible with punishment, scolding, or withholding.

When your dog earns a treat after something that you like, and you click at the same time, they associate the sound with the treat. In other words, your dog now understands the best ways to earn future rewards.

Other Helpful Tricks

It can also be helpful to say “yes” or “good” when your dog does something right, but overly praising them during clicker training can send the right message. The following tips will help you get started:

  • To get your dog accustomed to the sound of the clicker, line up several treats on the counter.
  • Sound the clicker, offer the treat. Repeat.
  • Start with a simple command, like “sit”.
  • Click and give a treat as soon as they do it.
  • Over time, increase the difficulty of the commands and communicate to your dog what your expectations are.
  • Only click and reward when they perform the trick or skill.
  • Once they’ve mastered certain aspects of training you can reduce or eliminate the use of treats during training. Some owners/trainers continue to use the clicker when necessary, but once dogs understand what you’re looking for, you can have them under voice command.

Branching Out

After awhile, you may see the widespread benefits of clicker training in your dog’s day to day life. Many owners are thrilled and excited by the dog’s new abilities out in public. If sliding doors, crowds, traffic noises, and bright lights used create aversions in your dog, try taking your clicker with you.

Clicker Training Works!

If you have additional questions or concerns about clicker training your dog, the team at West Park Animal Hospital is  always here for you!

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Xylitol and Pets: Reminders of a Not-so-Sweet Reality

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Dog Licking Peanut Butter off Spoon

With its claims of weight loss and improved health, the low-carb craze has everyone from teenagers to grandparents giving it a go. Because “low-carb” usually equates to “low-sugar,” sugar substitutes such as aspartame, erythritol, stevia, and xylitol seem to be in practically everything these days.

Meeting your health goals while still keeping your pet safe requires education, especially when it comes to xylitol toxicity. Xylitol and pets do not mix, and we want to make sure our readers are aware of the dangers associated with this particular substance.

 

What is Xylitol?

Xylitol is a sugar substitute that’s often found in sugar-free baked goods, candy, gum, mints, peanut butter, chewable vitamins, oral care products, and pharmaceuticals (to name a few). This naturally occurring substance is similar in taste and appearance to sugar and is usually extracted from corn fiber or hardwood trees, such as the birch tree. The popularity of xylitol has increased dramatically over the past few years due to its low glycemic index and cavity-fighting properties.

Xylitol and Pets

Although xylitol is safe for human consumption, it’s extremely toxic to dogs. Even in small amounts, xylitol can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar (known as hypoglycemia), seizures, liver failure, and even death. Xylitol has no known adverse effects in cats (although we do not recommend feeding your cat anything with xylitol).

Clinical Signs

If your dog has come into contact with xylitol, it should be considered a medical emergency. Symptoms of xylitol poisoning in dogs typically appear within 10-15 minutes or several hours of consumption. Signs can include any of the following:

  • Vomiting
  • Weakness
  • Loss of coordination, difficulty walking/standing
  • Depression or lethargy
  • Collapse
  • Tremors
  • Seizures

If you suspect your pet is suffering from xylitol toxicity, please bring them in to see us or visit the nearest emergency veterinary hospital right away. Time is of the essence when it comes to xylitol poisoning. Fortunately, with prompt treatment, many pets make a full recovery.

Prevention is Key

If you or anyone in your family regularly uses products containing xylitol, make sure they’re stored out of your pet’s reach. Always read labels before sharing any people-food with your pet. When brushing your pet’s teeth (which we recommend), be sure to use a pet-specific toothpaste (never use human-grade products).

Keep a close eye on backpacks, lunch boxes, purses, and coat pockets, as these can be of particular interest to dogs and are likely to contain gum, candy, leftover food, or other items that could be harmful. Initiate a strict family policy that all personal items be hung up immediately or otherwise stored out of your pet’s reach upon entering the home. Double check each day to make sure this has been done.

If you have additional questions regarding xylitol and pets, please don’t hesitate to contact the team at West Park Animal Hospital.

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National Deaf Dog Awareness Week

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Deaf dogs can be a challenge but can thrive with the right dog training and accommodations.

Dogs, like people, can be born deaf or experience varying degrees of hearing loss during their lifetimes. While this means that they require (and depend on) certain special arrangements to be made on their behalf, a deaf dog does not necessarily suffer a diminished quality of life. In fact, they can not only live a normal day-to-day existence, but they have a lot of love to give, as well.

Misconceptions

Dogs can simply be born deaf, in one or both ears. Typical breeds that are genetically susceptible to deafness include Dalmatians, Cocker Spaniels, Australian cattle dogs, English Setters, and Boston Terriers. Pigmentation can play a role in congenital deafness, as well. White-coated dogs and those with two different colored eyes are more prone.

They aren’t alone, though. Any animal born with the ability to hear can lose it as a result of traumatic injury, loud noises, infection, drug toxicity, tumors, and, of course, old age.

Connecting the Dots

A Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response (BAER) Test records the electrical activity of a dog’s brain in response to sound and aids in the understanding of deafness. With diagnostics, we can also help to eliminate the risks of possible infections or masses in or around the ear canal.

Casual tests can be done at home if you notice that your dog isn’t responding to their name being called, food dropped in their bowl, or the doorbell ringing. If they do not react to the vacuum, banging on pots, jangling the keys, or opening treats, deafness may be the formal diagnosis.

Living With a Deaf Dog

While owners have to go a bit further to get the attention of a deaf dog, it’s still possible to train them. They are just as capable and intelligent as other dogs that can hear; they simply need additional time and patience. The good news is that their other senses are more sensitive. Hand signals offer visual cues to a deaf dog, and offer opportunities to silently communicate.

Safety and Aggression

There is a misconception that when dogs cannot hear what’s going on around them, they startle more easily and become aggressive. While any startled dog has the potential to bite, deaf dogs should be approached by everyone with calm, stable, and gentle touches.

Keeping a deaf dog safe from harm is manageable with the following tactics:

  • Train them with positive reinforcement techniques and ensure they are properly socialized around other animals and people.
  • Keep the ID game strong not only with a collar and tags, but with a vest or jacket that clearly reads “I’m Deaf”, so people are better equipped to handle their needs in the case of separation. Also, always be sure to update their microchip.
  • Be there for your pet with the right hand signals for them to rely on. If they cannot see what’s happening, it’s not relevant to them. Guide them every step of the way.

Deaf Dog Awareness Week

The last week of September is National Deaf Dog Awareness Week. If you are celebrating your own deaf dog that week, you know how extra special these loyal companions are. Otherwise, there are adoption opportunities out there for people looking to share their lives with a deaf dog. We hope you’ll let us know if you have any questions or concerns.

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Subtle (and Not so Subtle) Signs of Animal Abuse

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Dog resting chin in owner's hand

Animal lovers everywhere are understandably outraged by stories and photographs of abused or neglected animals. For loving pet owners, it’s inconceivable to think of harming an animal, but signs of abuse and neglect can be subtle; it could be happening right under our very noses. That’s why we want to take a moment to review the subtle and less subtle signs of animal abuse in the home.

 

 

Signs of Animal Abuse

Besides witnessing the abuse first-hand, it can be hard to tell when there’s cause for concern. The following are likely signs of animal abuse:

  • Tucked tail, flinches at human contact
  • Unexplained fractures or limping
  • Unprovoked aggression, whining, or whimpering
  • Overly submissive (rolling onto back, tail tucked, urinating)
  • Suddenly avoiding any physical contact
  • Attempts to bite or scratch when petted

Some signs that an animal is being neglected can include:

  • Changes in appearance, such as fur loss, dull texture, or mange
  • Very skinny or sickly looking
  • Obvious wounds or injuries that remain untreated
  • Being left in a kennel or chained outside exclusively

What You Can Do

Animal abuse can be a touchy issue, but it should always be taken seriously. If you suspect or notice any signs of animal abuse, please contact West Park Animal Hospital immediately.

Young children can inadvertently hurt a pet, which is why it’s important to educate them on proper handling techniques and how to respect animals in general. If you know or suspect an older child is intentionally harming a pet as a means of coping with trauma or intense emotions, please seek professional help right away.

Protecting Pets

Alerting the proper authority is the best way to help an animal that’s being abused. If you know or suspect that someone is abusing or neglecting an animal, please call the cruelty hotline of the  Cleveland Animal Protective League (216-377-1630) and leave a detailed message. You can also contact your local police department and file a complaint.

In Ohio, animal abuse and neglect used to be considered a misdemeanor, but the law changed in 2009 – it’s now a fifth-degree felony offense. This means that anyone convicted will face six to twelve months in jail and pay a fine of up to $2,500. While it may seem difficult to report a case of animal abuse, especially if it involves someone you know, remember that you may be the only chance a pet has at finding safety and a better life.

Preventing Cruelty to Animals

Educating the next generation is one of the most effective ways to prevent animal cruelty. Instilling a sense of empathy and highlighting the value of life is essential when it comes to protecting the most vulnerable members of society.
Please contact the team at West Park Animal Hospital if you have any questions or concerns. We appreciate all you do to make the world a safer place for animals!

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What to do if a Service Dog Approaches You Without Their Owner

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A service dog looking up at its owner

Nowadays, most people know general guidelines when it comes to service dog etiquette. Refraining from petting a service dog while they’re working is an important rule, along with knowing that legitimate service dogs are allowed to accompany their owners nearly everywhere.

However, one topic that’s rarely discussed is the very real possibility that one of these animals may approach you without their owner. Knowing what this means and how to respond appropriately may mean the difference between life and death for a service dog handler.

 

Service Dog Safety Procedure

Service dogs are specifically trained to assist people with disabilities, including visual impairments, hearing impairments, mobility impairments, and mental disorders (such as post traumatic stress disorder). Besides assisting their owners with daily activities or alerting them to an impending medical crisis, a service dog fulfills another vital role – to seek assistance from an adult if their handler experiences a fall or medical emergency.

Know the Signs

A service dog that’s seeking assistance from a stranger may use their nose to nudge your leg, arm, or hand. As tempting as it may be to give a quick scratch behind the ears and be on your way, stop and think. Cue the dog to help you locate their owner by asking “what?” or “where?” or simply begin following the dog. If you ever see a service dog wandering without their owner, stop what you’re doing and follow them.

Situations that may cause a service dog to abandon their handler in search of help include:

  • A fall (out of a wheelchair or otherwise)
  • Seizure
  • A diabetic episode
  • Injury
  • Other medical emergency

A Friend in Need

Besides being a loving and devoted companion, service dogs make it possible for their owners to live as independently as possible. That includes going for help if and when their owner is in need of more assistance than the dog can provide.
Do you have any questions or concerns about your pet? Please don’t hesitate to contact the team at West Park Animal Hospital.

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Pot and Pets: Never a Good Idea

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Dog in Sunglasses with BandanaDespite past setbacks, advocates of marijuana legalization in Ohio are moving toward a new initiative that would allow adults 21 years and older to grow, transport, possess, use, sell, purchase, and share marijuana and its numerous derivatives. Like residents in other states with similar laws, questions about pet safety will undoubtedly become more prevalent in the years to come. Marijuana can be found in many forms these days, making the issue of pot and pets an even bigger deal than ever before.

Responsible Pet Owners

The use of marijuana is growing in popularity. In fact, it’s almost commonplace. Regardless of where you stand on the initiative, marijuana products are out there, so it’s best to be prepared with pet safety in mind.

Chemical Compounds

Marijuana contains cannabinoids, which are diverse chemical compounds that alter neurotransmitter release in the brain. Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are present in both hemp and marijuana products. To understand the problems associated with pot and pets, one should know that THC has psychotropic effects. CBD products are widely considered to have less toxicity in pets.

Why Pot and Pets Don’t Mix

While dried, green marijuana buds continue to be smoked; THC and CBD products are found in capsule form, tinctures, vaping pens, edibles, and more. Pets are extremely sensitive to the effects of THC on their neurological systems.

Animals that eat any form of marijuana can suffer symptoms of toxicity. Obviously, it depends on a pet’s weight, age, overall health, and the type/amount they consumed, but generally speaking, the following symptoms are common indicators of THC exposure:

  • Urinary incontinence
  • Disorientation
  • Low heart rate
  • Low blood pressure
  • Dilated pupils
  • Alternating between hyperactivity and dulled-down state
  • Easily startled by loud or sudden noise
  • Seizures or tremors

Your pet should be examined as soon as possible. They may need supportive care, such as IV fluids, heat therapy, and more. Pet owners should err on the side of caution and not be overly worried about the unlawful nature of the poisoning (no one will report you).

A Word on Edibles

Marijuana edibles can contain a more concentrated form of THC, which makes them more dangerous to pets.

  • Some products, like brownies or cookies, are made with a THC-infused butter that can cause pancreatitis.
  • Edible pot and pets shouldn’t mix, especially if chocolate is involved.

What About Pet Medical Marijuana?

Currently, there’s not enough research to indicate the safety and efficacy of cannabis products for pets. However, anecdotal evidence has led some pet owners to consider CBD (not THC) products to relieve symptoms of arthritis, nausea, pain, anxiety, inflammatory disorders, and autoimmune disorders.

Always Check First

As with anything related to your pet’s health and wellness, we urge you to contact us before giving anything to your pet. Marijuana cannot be legally prescribed; medical use for pets hasn’t been approved. Ordering CBD products online that are specifically designed for pets may not be safe.

Our veterinarians and staff are always here for you and your pet. Please give us a call if you have further questions about the safety of pot and pets.

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The Benefits of Growing Catnip in Your Garden

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A cat in a bed of nip.Our cats are such wonderful and amazing creatures, and many of us want to give them a special treat now and then. If you haven’t already thought of it, why not grow some catnip in your garden or your catio?

Most of us have heard of the euphoric effects of catnip on cats, and may have even witnessed this with our own cats. It’s true that catnip brings on a happy feeling in 75% of cats, large or small.

But are there any other tricks that catnip can do? If you’re into herbs or gardening, you probably know that most plants have many uses, and the same is true for catnip. West Park Animal Hospital thought it would be fun to explore this topic, seeing as the summer is prime time for this blooming herb.

The Benefits of Catnip

Catnip, also known as Nepeta cataria, is a member of the mint family. Aside from causing euphoria in cats, it is also beloved by bees and is a prolific bloomer, with pretty white or near white flowers with purple spots, and leaves covered with soft hairs that contain the volatile oils that give catnip it’s distinctive scent.

Other benefits of catnip in your garden include:

Catnip makes a yummy tea – this herb is delicious in tea when dried in a warm spot or after being placed in a dehydrator. It combines well with lemon balm, chamomile or other mints. It is said that these combinations help to reduce stress and promote relaxation and sleep.

Catnip repels mosquitoes, flies, and other biting bugs – some gardeners say that if you rub a handful of plants on your skin, the oils will repel pests for several hours.  

Catnip has medicinal properties – it is thought that the water soluble compounds in catnip are antibacterial in nature, lending merit to the age old remedy of washing and cleaning wounds with it.

Catnip In Your Garden

Now that we’ve convinced you that you need to add catnip to your garden, here are some tips for growing it and enjoying it along with your cat.

Catnip grows into a floppy mound three feet wide, and is a hardy perennial that prefers open, dry places. It grows easily and doesn’t mind being cut back severely to harvest the leaves  – for your cats and you – in early summer. You can harvest again in late summer if you wish.

Catnip is easy to grow, and although it doesn’t send out runners like other plants of the mint family, catnip sheds significant seeds as it grows. These easily turn into volunteer seedlings which can be either composted or moved to a desired location.

Another great idea for catnip in your garden is to use it as a deterrent.  If your or a neighborhood cat is bothering your garden, plant catnip as a border and this may distract them away from the rest of your garden. Interestingly, it is reported that rats and mice are also repelled by catnip in your garden – how’s that for irony!

We hope this has given you some great ideas for using catnip in your garden, and that you enjoy it as much as your cats will. If you already grow catnip for your cats (or yourself), give us a call and let us know!

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Splish, Splash, Safe: Dog Water Safety 101

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Dog Holding Onto Poolside After SwimSummer may be halfway over, but that doesn’t mean we’re packing up the sunscreen or covering the grill just yet. Spending the day at the lake or pool is still on the agenda for many families, and bringing a water-loving dog along adds another layer of fun.

Even if your dog is a true beach bum or poolside pup, good dog water safety is a must. Keep the following tips in mind for a fun, safe, and successful day on the water with your four-legged family member.

Dog Water Safety 101

Protecting your pet against drowning and other water-related dangers form the basis of dog water safety.

  • Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and even those who are can get overly tired, swim too far out, or get trapped in the water. Always supervise your dog while in or around water; consider using a canine life vest for added safety.
  • Deep water, such as Lake Erie, is often quite cold and can be dangerous to dogs. A good rule of thumb: if the water’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pet.
  • Lakeshores, river beds, and even pool decks can be littered with refuse that can injure your pet’s paw pads. Keep an eye out for broken glass, fishing hooks, sharp rocks or sticks, and other debris that could pose a danger.
  • Parasites and contagious diseases are seemingly everywhere. Make sure your dog is current on vaccinations and parasite prevention prior to taking a dip.

The Heat is On

Although being in the water helps your pet stay cool, they’re still at risk for heat-related dangers. Protect against dehydration and heatstroke with regular breaks in the shade. Also provide plenty of cool, fresh drinking water (discourage drinking from the lake or pool water, which can be toxic to pets). If you notice any signs of heat-related illness, such as excessive panting or drooling, weakness, lethargy, or pale/bright red gums, give us a call immediately.

Keep “Petiquette” in Mind

Whether you’re in the water or not, a little bit of basic courtesy goes a long way toward keeping your dog and others safe:

  • Keep your dog leashed at all times when out of the water. Don’t allow them to investigate wildlife or other people or pets.
  • Keep people food away from your dog, and dispose of all food-related trash immediately.
  • Last but not least, scoop that poop!

Packing Up

Dog water safety doesn’t end when it’s time to pack up and go home. Before you jump in the car, rinse your pet with clean water, and towel dry their fur thoroughly; pay special attention to the face and ears. Check your pet’s skin for any external parasites, and inspect their paw pads for injuries.  

Please let us know if you have additional questions about dog water safety. We hope you have a wonderful summer!

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Heatstroke in Pets: Prevent, Recognize, and Intervene Immediately

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Dog Sitting on Bench Next to LeashThe risks of heatstroke in pets are very real. Symptoms don’t always stem from over-exertion on a hot day. Instead, the prime culprit is usually plain and simple dehydration. Pets sweat a little bit through their noses and paw pads, but in an attempt to regulate internal body temperature, they pant. If access to shade and cool, clean water is restricted, organ dysfunction and even failure can occur on a hot and humid day. Prevention must remain a top priority, but being able to recognize the signs and know how to help are equally important.

The Basics

Heatstroke in pets, or hyperthermia, is characterized by an internal temperature greater than 103 degrees. Overexposure to environmental heat can lead to internal temperatures of 109 degrees, multiple organ failure, and even death.

Potential Causes

As we said, dehydration is to blame for most cases of heatstroke in pets. The following are also well-known causes:

  • Inadequate ventilation, such as the inside of a parked car, a garage, doghouse, or sun-filled room, can quickly elevate a pet’s temperature.
  • Excessive exercise during peak hours can trigger symptoms, especially if a pet does not have water or shade.
  • Restricted airways in flat-faced breeds (pugs, bulldogs, boxers, etc.) can cause labored breathing and an inability to effectively cool down.

All pets are at risk, but young animals, seniors, obese pets, and those suffering from other medical conditions deserve careful consideration in the heat and humidity.

Know What to Look for

If you notice excessive panting (especially when your pet hasn’t been exercising), it’s time to get them to a cool, shaded area. Other signs include:

  • Bright red tongue
  • Red or pale gums
  • Drooling; thick, sticky saliva
  • Weakness
  • Disorientation
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Decreased urination
  • Seizures
  • Muscle tremors
  • Shock
  • Coma

Swift Intervention

Don’t take any chances when it comes to heatstroke in pets. An animal’s body temperature must be reduced, but it must be done in a slow, controlled manner. Cooling your pet down too quickly can cause other problems. Never use ice.

Spray or apply rags soaked in tepid water to the head, abdomen, underarms, and feet. Take a rectal temperature every few minutes. Once 103 degrees is reached, your pet should be thoroughly dried off and covered. We urge you to bring them in to see us so we can ascertain the extent of the injuries from dehydration.

Intravenous fluids and oxygen may be administered, as well as diagnostic tests for shock, respiratory distress, kidney failure, heart issues, and other complications.

Heatstroke in Pets

Our veterinarians and staff members hope you and your pet have a safe, enjoyable summer. Please call us with any questions, and never hesitate to seek emergency care for your pet.

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