SUMMER LOVIN’ – Heat Stroke In Pets

Heat stroke is a very big danger in our area where our summer is a beautiful as our beaches and heat exhaustion can happen very quickly!
Did you know that dogs and cats don’t actually sweat, they loose heat from panting. As you can imagine there is only so much panting you can do before you can’t cool yourself down anymore. 

Summer lovin’ had me a blast,
Summer lovin’ happened so fast,
Met a dog crazy for me
Met a owner cute as can be

Uh well-a well-a well-a huh!

Tell me more, tell me more
Did you get in the car?
Tell me more, tell me more
Like did you go very far?

She swam by me, she got a stick
He ran by me, got me to play fetch
I saved her life, she nearly drowned
He showed off, splashing around
Summer sun, something’s begun
But ah, oh, those summer nights

Well-a, well-a, well-a, uh!
Tell me more, tell me more
Was it too hot for you?
Tell me more, tell me more
Like what did your owner do?

Took her to the vet she was dry in the lips,
She was admitted, placed on some drips,
We made it there just in time,
The nurses stayed with her the entire time,
Summer flings can be such big things
but, uh oh, those summer nights

Tell me more, tell me more
What was it that got you?
Tell me more, tell me more
Was heat stroke? What did they do?

The vets got friendly holding my paw,
That was nice I was scared when I walked in the door,
They were sweet, I was feeling better
The nurses gave my owner a letter
Summer heat, boy and girl meet
But, Uh oh, those summer nights

Tell me more, tell me more
What did the letter say?
Tell me more, tell me more
It was the risks of heat stroke on a hot summers day!

It turned colder, that’s when it was clear
Dad told me we’d be careful next year
Then we made our summer vow
Wonder what we will do now
Summer dreams ripped at the seams
But, oh those summer nights.

Heat stroke is a real risk.

Here are some helpful hints on how to keep your babies cool this summer
– Always have a shaded cool area for your pet to rest in
– Always have water available – place ice cubes in it if needed
– Have air-conditioning on if possible – at home and in the car
– Don’t exercise in the heat of the day
– Never leave your pet in the car
– If your pet is travelling on the back of a ute be aware of the potential to burn their pads

Signs of heat stroke include:
– Panting
– Dry gums and lips
– Vomiting
– Bright red tongue and gums
– Drooling
– Weakness
– Tremors
– Seizures
– Coma
– Little to no urine production

If your pet is suffering any signs of heat stroke seek veterinary treatment immediately.

For more information Click here to visit the RSPCA’s website for heat stroke.