Over Heating in Dogs

Janice from Hurunui District

“Will a puppy/dog stop running for a ball, jogging beside his owner when he gets exhausted?” The quick answer to this question is "no" -- many dogs will not stop on their own when actively playing or fetching, until they have to. On a hot day, the time between having fun and heatstroke can be very short. The time is even shorter in high humidity, when the animal is out of shape, and/or unaccustomed to the heat and humidity.
There have been several cases of heatstroke in dogs who were having a great time playing and jogging with their owners. When they finally stop to lie down, they physically couldn’t go on any more. Heatstroke happens fast .A Labrador playing fetch in a lake, in and out of water suffered heatstroke due to overexertion.

Panting isn't the easiest way to cool off, and it is much more difficult in humid weather, as there is very little evaporation. The activity doesn't have to be strenuous either, dogs just aren't built to cool off like humans are. Please keep "overexertion" in mind when out playing with your dog. It can happen much quicker than expected. Especially the "short-nosed" breeds. Dogs such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Pekingese. They are most at risk for heatstroke due to high temperatures and overexertion. Because of their anatomy, nostrils are smaller, the soft tissue at the back of their throat may impede air flow, and they may have a smaller trachea (windpipe) than other dogs their size.
Tips to avoid overexertion and heatstroke in pets
• Work up slowly to exercise fitness. Make exercise part of the regular routine.
• Exercise in the early morning and late evening when it is (hopefully) cooler. Avoid the midday heat. It can be a killer.
• Offer small amounts of fresh cool (not iced) water, frequently.
• Use a hose or let your pet swim in a lake or pool to become thoroughly wet before a walk. Evaporation will help keep your pet cool. Be sure to wet all layers of coat, especially double-coated breeds, such as Retrievers, for maximum cooling.
• Watch your pet for signs of tiring and too much panting. The panting tongue out too far will indicate break time.
• Search for shade-available areas.
• Some dogs love having their own kiddie pool in the yard.
• Be mindful of pad burns on hot pavement and metal surfaces.

BEWARE OF DOGS IN CARS ON WARM DAYS – CARS HEAT UP VERY QUICKLY AND A WINDOW LEFT SLIGHTLY OPEN IS NOT SUFFICIENT