How To Keep Your Dog From Heatstroke In Our Hot Montana Summer

It's the peak of summer in Montana.  While we're all trying to figure out ways to keep cool, don't forget your furry family members.

Dogs Can't Sweat Well

While dogs do have a couple of sweat glands, they're built more to keep the heat in.  Panting is the most effective way for your dog to release heat.  They also release a little bit of heat from the bottom of their paws.

Can My Dog Get Heat Stroke?

Yes.  These are the signs that your dog is in trouble, from AKC:

• Fast, Loud breathing
• Rectal temperature of 103 or higher
• Extreme thirst
• Weak or exhausted
• Vomiting
• Disorientation
• Dark or bright red tongue and gums
• Thick saliva
• Trouble breathing
• Fast heart beat
• Heavy drooling
• Agitated

What Do I Do If My Dog Has Heat Stroke?

Take them to a cooler area, then separate their fur with your fingers to help heat escape.  Pour cool water over their head and body or even put them in a tub of cool water.  After you get them stable take them to the vet.

How Do I Prevent Heat Stroke For My Dog?

AKC recommends:

• Stay in cool, shaded area or air conditioning
• Chamois cloth, moist, on your dogs back
• Cooling Pad or cold, wet towel for your dog to lie on
• Rubbing alcohol dabbed behind their ears, on their stomach and on the pads of their feet.  It cools faster than water and helps to draw out heat
• Spray bottle to mist their groin area, bottom of their feet and mouth.
• Rectal thermometer to check their temperature
• Unflavored pediatric electrolyte solution