How to Identify, Treat & Prevent Heatstroke In Your Assistance Dog in Florida
Living with an assistance dog in Florida poses a unique challenge not necessarily posed to assistance dogs in other parts of the country. As we enter into the hot and steamy summer months it’s important to once again remember, that service dogs are not indestructible creatures and that they can just as easily succumb to the heat and humidity of Florida as any other family pet will. Genesis Assistance Dogs, Inc. wants you to know how to identify and prevent heatstroke in your assistance dog so you can keep him happy and healthy.
As you rely on your assistance dog in Florida to provide support to you when you are out and about, your dog relies on you to keep them safe. Please remember to never, ever leave your dog in a parked car for any reason. Studies have shown that in 10 minutes the interior of a car can reach 102⁰ on an 85⁰ day. The temperatures in Florida run much higher than that, so the temperatures within a parked vehicle will rise quicker, faster.
A dog’s anatomy causes it to respond differently to heat than a human body does. While humans are able to sweat from multiple areas of our bodies a dog can only sweat through the nose and pads of the paws. When we sweat our body attempts to cool off from the cooling effect of evaporation on our skin. If that doesn’t work for us we can use cool compresses, take a cool bath, drink fluids and rest. For a dog, panting is the body’s singular attempt to cool down. We owe it to them to be in tune to their behavior and be able to identify distress and render immediate assistance.
It doesn’t take very long for a dog to suffer irreversible damage to internal organs, the brain and nervous system when they have become overheated. It’s crucial for you to be vigilant in watching for any of these symptoms:
- Excessive drooling
- Heavy panting
- Increased pulse
- Weakness/Mobility issues
- Elevated body temperature
- Extreme thirst
- Seizures/Unconsciousness
- Glazed eyes
- Bloody diarrhea/vomiting
If you observe any of these symptoms quickly move your assistance dog to a cool and shaded area. If your dog is conscious offer him frequent but small sips of water (NOT COLD) and call your veterinary professional.
Should your dog show symptoms of lethargy or become unresponsive, try to cool him down wet towels or a hose. Do not try to lower body temperature using ice or ice water as it can cause shock in an overheated dog. If possible, get them into an air-conditioned environment. Call your vet immediately.
Prevent overheating and heatstroke by ensuring that your assistance dog in Florida always has access to fresh drinking water. Learn to carry a portable water bowl and drinking water with you when you are out and about. If you are spending time outdoors be sure to let your dog rest in shaded areas. You should walk and exercise your assistance dog in the early morning and evening hours to prevent hot surfaces from burning the dog’s pads. Reflective heat and rising heat from pavement frequently cause overheating so if it can be avoided, it’s best not to be out for any period of time if the temperature rises above 90⁰.
Keeping assistance dogs in Florida healthy and safe during the hot summer months requires a little bit of planning and being aware of your surroundings. Protect your companion from the dangers of overheating and heatstroke. Click here for some other hot weather safety tips from the ASPCA.
