Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs
Extremely hot weather isn’t only uncomfortable and dangerous for us humans, it can be threatening to our canine friends as well. To prevent dogs from suffering any heat-related health conditions such as heat stroke, it’s important to be able to recognize the warnings signs. Here are a number of things dog owners should look out for that may indicate heat stroke in a dog:
- Increased rectal temperature (over 104° requires action, over 106° is a dire emergency)
- Vigorous panting
- Dark red gums
- Tacky or dry mucus membranes (specifically the gums)
- Lying down and unwilling (or unable) to get up
- Collapse and/or loss of consciousness
- Thick saliva
- Dizziness or disorientation
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