{"id":240,"date":"2018-07-03T14:13:13","date_gmt":"2018-07-03T19:13:13","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.tenwestvet.com\/blog\/?p=240"},"modified":"2018-07-03T14:13:13","modified_gmt":"2018-07-03T19:13:13","slug":"heat-stroke-in-pets","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tenwestvet.com\/blog\/heat-stroke-in-pets\/","title":{"rendered":"From Exhaustion and Stress to Full-Blown Heat Stroke in Pets"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"HeatWhether it\u2019s scheduling a dentist appointment or calling the pest control company, we all need reminders from time to time. However, when it comes to the rising temps of Texas summers, no one can afford to forget the importance of staying cool. <\/span><\/p>\n

Unfortunately, pets don\u2019t have the luxury of making adjustments for their own comfort. Instead, they rely on us to protect their safety and wellbeing. Let <\/span>the experts<\/span><\/a> at Ten West Bird and Animal Hospital offer up some tips to prevent heat stroke in pets this summer.<\/span><\/p>\n

For Your Consideration<\/span><\/h3>\n

Heat stroke in pets can sneak up on you, which is why (among other reasons) it\u2019s critical to know the signs. Animals accustomed to playing or exercising outdoors have to scale back their efforts, but all animals are susceptible to the effects of being in direct sunlight. <\/span>Brachycephalic breeds (i.e., flat-faced)<\/span><\/a>, senior pets, kittens\/puppies, overweight\/obese animals, and ailing pets are all at higher risk.<\/span><\/p>\n

Not Entirely Effective<\/span><\/h3>\n

To cope with high temperatures, <\/span>cats and dogs<\/span><\/a> \u201csweat\u201d through their paw pads and a little bit through their skin (although not super effective with a lot of fur). To regulate internal temperatures, they pant. When an animal is stressed or exhausted from heat exposure, they\u2019ll pant excessively to the point where they have difficulty breathing.<\/span><\/p>\n

Heat stroke in pets can lead to increased heart and respiratory rates, drooling, weakness, seizure, collapse, organ damage, and even death. If you observe any of these symptoms, <\/span>seek emergency care immediately<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Prevention…it Counts!<\/span><\/h3>\n

The summer sun<\/span><\/a> comes up pretty early in San Antonio, and it doesn\u2019t take long for temperatures to soar. Because of this, it\u2019s important to restrict your daily walks to early morning or dusk, and avoid being outside when the sun is at its peak. Also keep the following in mind:<\/span><\/p>\n