Heat Stroke Warning for Pets - Seeing More of These...
Our veterinary clinic has seen an uptick in cases of heat stroke in pets across the past month here in Alpharetta.
Extra caution for flat-faced breeds: Brachycephalic dogs—including French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers—can overheat much faster because their shortened airways make it harder to cool themselves effectively through panting. Keep exercise especially limited on hot or humid days.
And DEFINITELY never leave a pet unattended in a parked vehicle, even for a short period. Temperatures inside a car can become dangerous remarkably quickly.
Watch for signs of overheating or heat stroke, including:
- Excessive or frantic panting
- Heavy drooling
- Bright red or unusually pale gums
- Weakness, stumbling, or difficulty standing
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Confusion or unusual behavior
- Collapse or loss of consciousness
If your pet is showing significant weakness, vomiting, confusion, difficulty breathing, collapse, or other signs of severe overheating, treat it as an emergency. Move them into a cool environment, begin cooling them with cool—not ice-cold—water, and contact your veterinarian or emergency hospital right away.
A little prevention goes a long way. Stay cool and stay safe this summer! 🐶🐱❤️
— The Edgewater Animal Hospital Team on Windward Parkway