Have you ever thought about leaving your pet in the car while you just run into the store for a quick second? In just ten minutes a cars internal temperature can reach a scorching 104 degrees. And after twenty minutes it can be up to 114 degrees. Now think about that quick trip into the store, are you still sure it will take under ten minutes? If not there can be severe consequences to your loved one.
Exposure to excessive external temperatures will cause a rise in the core body temp of a pet. Dogs are not as efficient at releasing heat as we are and as such can become over heated quickly. This can be worse in brachycephalic breeds (shorter snout) such as; pugs, bulldogs, and Boston terriers that naturally have difficulty panting as well as overweight pets. Once the internal temperature is above 104 degrees this becomes an emergency that if not treated can become life threatening. Some early signs and risk factors to look for would be excessive panting, excessive thirst, thickened saliva, and bright red tongue with pale gums. Some later symptoms can be collapse, disorientation, seizures, vomiting, or diarrhea.
If your pet is suffering from heatstroke, they should be taken to the Vet for help. On the way to your veterinarian you can do some simple things to help your loved ones outcome and start decreasing their temp right away. First remove them from the heat and then start with cool wet rags and water pads. Never use ice on an overheated pet as it will constrict the blood vessels on the skins surface decreasing their ability to dissipate heat and cause the internal temp to continue to rise. If you have rubbing alcohol available you can place some on the paw pads. Once at your veterinarians they will place your pet on intravenous fluids, check his blood count, and continue to slowly cool them.
The key to a positive outcome is the speed at which you start the cooling process and getting the pet to your vet as soon as possible. So as the summer is approaching make sure your pets have plenty of free water and try to keep them out of direct sunlight especially in the heat of the day to avoid heat exhaustion/stroke.
What Our Clients Have To Say
I wasn’t holding my breath that a vet would work hard to help diagnose my leopard gecko. I was wrong. The doctor worked hard to diagnose why our pet lizard stopped eating & ran a battery of tests.
Paulina Testerman
Vets and staff are knowledgeable and efficient. Clean and friendly Vet office. My dog now goes in to see her Vet with out balking.
Sara Little
Dr. Fink was just super with the Bruiser on his last visit. The entire staff was attentive, caring and professional. We would highly recommend University Animal Clinic to all who love their pets and want the best care for them.
ARF
All employees are amazing with animals. I am glad I found a Vet’s office that makes me feel that my 5 months old puppy is in the best hands
Heide Myrick
Even with full covid-19 protection our Basset was well cared for by the staff, I received detailed home care instructions and got a ‘checking on you’ call the next day. Our basset is on the way to revovery. Perfect outcome. Great caring friendly staff.
Stan Yonkauski
Met Dr. Sam and Dr. Fink today and was very impressed. We have been a client of University Animal Clinic since it opened with Dr. Rill. My wife and I feel very comfortable with these ladies and plan to keep our relationship with them. The staff and Dr’s are very helpful and friendly.
Pet Parent
The very best of care, the entire staff always gives their all and truly cares about both patient and parents! You won’t find a better clinic in Sarasota.
Ron Marano
My dogs, Max and Leo, always have a very positive experience at UAC. The staff is friendly and professional. The office is efficient and clean. I appreciate the ability to check on the dogs’ vaccinations, etc., on the pet portal. Great vet practice.
Ronni Silverman
The entire staff was friendly and professional. Dr. Sam was extremely knowledgeable, kind, and eased my anxiety. Even though I was worried they comforted me, answered all of my questions, and took great care of my fur baby.
Zach Gennette
It is very difficult to find an avian vet who is kind while not sugar coating what can be bad news. I had no idea conures get cataracts as they get older, helped me understand my bird’s actions. The Dr. is wonderful!
