MERCER COUNTY, W.Va. (WVVA) – Along with the arrival of summer comes a need to be safe in the heat.
Whether that be staying in air-conditioned spaces or going out to swim at your local pool. There are many ways people can make sure they’re properly cooling off.
While most of us know how to catch ourselves before overheating, it’s important, however, to look out for our pets as well. Veterinarian April Munique, who has more than twenty years of experience in the field tells us dogs can suffer from heat stroke and that what may sound like an easy way to cool them off is harmful.
“A lot of people will hose them down and that can also be very dangerous,” Monique explained. “It will bring the temperature up because it responds to very cold water.”
While Munique says heat stroke in dogs can be easily prevented, it’s a problem she sees quite often. Partially is when people leave their dogs in their vehicles. Munique says that even when the windows crack, it’s not enough to keep them cool. Adding that the best way to prevent the risk of your dog overheating in the car is to use common sense.
“It’s important to use common sense in weather like this. If you can’t sit in your car; your dog should not be in the car.” She said. “If you can’t take the dog in with you, don’t take the dog.”
Aside from keeping your dog out of a hot vehicle, Munique advises that when you are outside, pay attention to signs that your dog is about to suffer from a heat stroke. Signs include slowing down, salivating, pale or bright red gums, and being lethargic. She says if they are suffering from those symptoms, the first thing to do is to get them out of the area.
“Get them out of that situation, get them in shade, get them to a cool environment.” Explained Munique . “Get a fan blowing on them and try to get as much of this heat coming off of them as possible. In that time, be on your way to the veterinary office.”
Overall, Munique says that if people just pay attention to their dogs, they can avoid these issues and keep their pets healthy.
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