July 4 — According to a 2023 report from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the frequency, duration and intensity of heat waves have increased dramatically in recent decades, and 2023 was globally the hottest year on record. As temperatures rise, so do cases of heat-related veterinary visits, and it is increasingly vital to know the warning signs of heatstroke in your pets and take informed preventive measures.
Heat-related veterinary visits include heat exhaustion and heatstroke, when an animal’s temperature rises so much that it can no longer regulate its own temperature and requires medical treatment.
Cases of heat-related emergency room visits to Cheat Lake Animal Hospital have increased in recent years and began presenting themselves earlier in the season, said owner Dr. Jesse Fallon, a trend he attributes to rising temperatures and higher rates of outdoor activities such as hiking and farming. popularity of dog breeds at risk.
While all pet owners should understand the early signs of heat exhaustion, this is especially pertinent for owners of specific types of pets. Elderly or very young animals, those with heart or respiratory problems, overweight animals and those with thick coats are at greater risk of heatstroke. However, the majority of Cheat Lake Animal Hospital’s heat-related visits are brachycephalic dog breeds, also called “flat-faced,” including popular breeds such as the English bulldog, French bulldog, pug, Boston terrier, boxer It is the most.
“They have a harder time moving air, and because of that, they have a harder time maintaining their body temperature,” Fallon said. “Owners who have these types of pets need to be aware that they are at greater risk.”
Although pets left in hot vehicles represent a considerable portion of cases, the causes of heatstroke are varied. Triggers of heatstroke include entrapment in any confined space with excessive heat or lack of air circulation, time spent outdoors in extreme temperatures or humidity without rest, shade and access to cool, clean water, exercise in high temperatures, and exposure to heat. radiant from urban areas such as sidewalks or driveways.
Many pet owners were left in a difficult situation last month when areas of north-central West Virginia lost power due to storms, and some home temperatures soared into the 90s. Like all emergency situations, have a plan for yourself and your pets in advance.
Learning the early signs of heat exhaustion can ensure a quick response time should the situation arise. Excessive panting, lethargy and incoordination, restlessness, disinterest in play or commands, increased heart rate, excessive salivation, and abnormal gum color are just a few early signs of heat exhaustion, before progressing to more severe collapse, seizures, diarrhea, and, if untreated, death.
With prompt veterinary treatment, most cases of heatstroke will recover, but early recognition and treatment are key.
“At the first sign that you’re worried your dog might be overheating, put him in the shade, put him in air conditioning, give him some cool water, keep him as cool as possible,” Fallon said. “If you notice serious signs, take them to the vet – you won’t be able to manage this at home with cooling techniques alone.”
In the event that your pet is overheating, avoid offering it ice or cold water, spraying alcohol on its paw pads, placing a wet towel over the animal, or other methods that may affect the animal’s temperature too quickly or restrict its self-control. cooling. methods.
The easiest step to prevention, however, is avoidance, Fallon explained. Keep your pets out of situations that could cause them to overheat. Reserve exercise and outdoor time for cooler mornings and evenings, ensure your pets have continuous access to clean water, shade and air circulation, maintain a healthy weight for your pet year-round, and in At the heart of Fallon’s advice, remember that your pet’s safety is in your hands.
“Keep in mind that the pet will not be able to tell if it is getting too hot, they are not the same as people, so you must take care of them,” said Fallon. “It’s our job as pet owners to look after our pets and make sure they don’t get too hot.”
Cheat Lake Animal Hospital receives several heat-related emergency visits every week on average during the summer months. Education, preparation and prevention can help keep your pet off the treatment table – but if the situation arises, don’t hesitate to visit the hospital during its 24/7 operations.
For more information visit www.CheatLakeVets.com.
