As compassionate veterinarians at Croton Animal Hospital, serving the communities of Northern Westchester County, including Croton, Cortlandt Manor, Ossining, Peekskill, and Yorktown, we know how much joy pets bring to our lives. But with summer’s scorching temperatures, keeping our furry friends safe becomes a top priority. Heatstroke is a serious medical emergency, and recognizing the signs and taking swift action can be life-saving.
Here at Croton Animal Hospital, we want to empower you to be your pet’s hero this summer. Let’s explore what to do if your pet shows signs of overheating.
Common Signs of Pet Overheating:
| Symptom | Description |
| Excessive Panting | Rapid, shallow breaths, often with tongue lolling out. |
| Excessive Drooling | Drooling more than usual, especially thick or foamy drool. |
| Lethargy or Weakness | Appears sluggish, disinterested, or wobbly on their feet. |
| Elevated Body Temperature | Rectal temperature exceeding 103°F (39.4°C). |
| Bright Red or Pale Gums | Normally pink gums can turn a bright red or become pale due to dehydration and lack of oxygen. |
| Vomiting or Diarrhea | Heat stress can cause stomach upset, leading to vomiting or diarrhea. |
| Disorientation or Confusion | Your pet may seem dazed, restless, or unable to recognize familiar surroundings. |
| Seizures or Muscle Tremors | In severe cases, overheating can cause seizures or uncontrollable muscle tremors. |
| Collapse or Unconsciousness | If heatstroke progresses untreated, your pet may collapse or lose consciousness. |
If you suspect your pet is overheating, stay calm and follow these steps immediately:
- Move Your Pet to a Cool Location: Get your pet out of the heat and into a shaded, air-conditioned area if possible.
- Cool Them Down Gradually: Apply cool (not ice cold) compresses to their head, neck, and armpits. You can also dampen their fur with cool water (avoid soaking).
- Offer Cool Water (Not Force It): If your pet is alert and drinking, provide small amounts of cool water. Do not force them to drink.
- Seek Veterinary Attention Immediately: Contact Croton Animal Hospital right away, regardless of the severity of symptoms. Even if your pet seems to improve, veterinary evaluation and treatment are crucial.
Here at Croton Animal Hospital, our experienced team is equipped to diagnose and treat heatstroke effectively. We offer:
- Advanced Diagnostics: Our advanced diagnostic tools allow for a quick and accurate assessment of your pet’s condition.
- Compassionate Treatment: We understand the stress of a pet emergency. Our team will provide your pet with the highest quality care and keep you informed throughout the process.
- Resource Network: When necessary, we’ll tell you who to call for any type of emergency that requires specialized and/or after-hours services.
Keeping Your Pet Cool This Summer:
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to keep your pet cool and prevent overheating this summer:
- Limit Outdoor Time: Avoid walks and playtime during the hottest part of the day (typically between 10 am and 4 pm).
- Provide Ample Shade and Water: Ensure your pet has access to cool, freshwater throughout the day, both indoors and outdoors. Offer shaded areas to rest in outside.
- Never Leave Your Pet in a Hot Car: Even with the windows cracked, car temperatures can rise very quickly, posing a serious danger to your pet.
- Frozen Treats: Frozen treats like Kongs filled with healthy ingredients or frozen lickable yogurt can be a fun and refreshing way to keep your pet cool.
Schedule a Summer Wellness Exam:
Regular veterinary checkups are essential for maintaining your pet’s overall health. During a summer wellness exam at Croton Animal Hospital, we can:
- Discuss your pet’s individual heatstroke risk factors.
- Develop a personalized heatstroke prevention plan.
- Ensure your pet’s vaccinations and parasite prevention are up-to-date.
At Croton Animal Hospital, your pet’s well-being is our top priority. Call us today or visit our website to schedule a summer wellness exam and keep your furry friend cool and healthy all season long!
