In Texas in the summer, we must be vigilant about keeping our dogs cool, not only because of the heat, but that combined with the humidity, can be a lethal combination to our beloved pets.  Unlike humans who sweat to cool themselves, dogs cool by panting.   This draws air over the moist membranes of the nose and tongue and cools by evaporation.   But panting only works for a short time.   Prolonged panting can critically upset your dog's metabolic system.   High humidity diminishes the cooling effect of panting, increasing the possibility of heatstroke.   Dogs often survive hot days yet succumb on cooler days that are more humid.  Black dogs absorb the sun's rays, so they get hot more quickly than lighter-colored dogs.  Don't encourage exercise during the hottest part of the day.  In Texas, waiting for cooler, evening or early morning hours to exercise and play still usually means temperatures are in the 90s.  Your dog does not know when to quit exercising.   Keep in mind a good walk for a greyhound in good temperatures is 20-30 minutes, so in bad temperatures, it should be less than that. It is up to YOU to protect your dog. 

Heat Stroke - Signs include:   excessive panting, drooling, a bright red tongue and gums,  the skin on the inside of the ears may become flushed and red, weakness, wobble in walk, fainting or loss of consciousness.

Response:  If your dog is exhibiting signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, cease all activity immediately.  Cool your dog down as quickly as possible. YOU MUST TAKE EMERGENCY ACTION.  Do not wait to get to the veterinarian's office.  Hose down or shower your dog with cool, not cold, water or give it a cool water rubdown right away.  However, cooling the body back to normal is often not sufficient to save your dog's life. Follow your veterinarian's emergency procedures to secure professional medical assistance for your dog AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.   If you are unfamiliar with your veterinarian's emergency medical procedures, contact him or her for instructions.   And, if you are unable to contact your vet, or are out of town, proceed to the nearest available emergency veterinary facility as soon as possible.   IT IS ALWAYS BEST to have these plans in place BEFORE an emergency situation arises.