Over the weekend, Hobbes joined us on a convertible ride to Wisconsin for lunch and ice cream. Since the sun was shining and hot, I watched Hobbes for signs of overheating or heat stroke. Why was I concerned?

 

Six years ago, Hobbes joined our

Hobbes Enjoying Ride

family on a beautiful September weekend. A few days later it was in the 70s with high humidity. Hobbes was chasing a neighbor's dog and having a great time. In less than 10 minutes he was panting rapidly, his tongue was bright red, and he was foaming at the mouth!

 

I immediately took him out of the yard, because he wanted to keep playing. I started doing Tellington TTouch® ear work on him, stood him in cool water, and hosed him down with cool water. Fortunately for us, he responded quickly and was fine. Since then he overheats quickly and doesn't like the heat! 

 

The signs of heatstroke are:

• Rapid panting
• Bright red tongue
• Dark red gums that turn blue or grey
• Rapid heartbeat
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Thick saliva 

If your dog is showing these signs:

• He may need immediate veterinary care.
• When in doubt, go to the vet because the situation can change quickly.
• Move the dog to a cool spot. If available, move the dog into air conditioning or a shaded area.
• Gently spray the dog with cool, not cold water.
• A dog's normal rectal temperature is between 100 and 102.5 F. If you check the temperature and it is above 104, please recheck it every 10 minutes.
• Do Tellington TTouch® Ear Slides to calm the dog, regulate its body temperature, and keep him out of shock. Very lightly stroke the ear from the skull to the tip of the ear with one hand as you support their head with your other hand. Stroke one ear at a time. For large ears, you will move your fingers to another area of the ear after each slide. (For a visual, check out the video on Animal Bridges home page.)
• Exhale to calm yourself! Your dog picks up your stress.

Even cats can get over heated. Be sure your cats have a cool place to escape the heat.
Take care,

Elaine