HEALTH WATCH: HEATSTROKE & FROSTBITE

Heatstroke and Frostbite are a real danger for pets. These are serious conditions that can lead to rapid death. Symptomsmust be recognized ant treatment initiated quickly.

HEATSTROKE

Signs and symptoms of a pet suffering from HEATSTROKE are:

  • Labored breathing
  • Excessive panting
  • Warm, dry skin
  • Anxious attitude
  • Lying down
  • Drooling
  • A glazed look
  • Unresponsive to external stimulation
  • Bright red tongue and gums
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • High fever
  • Vomiting
  • Collapse

Immediate emergency care is required for an animal suffering from heatstroke. The pet should be placed in a bathtub filled with water that is cool but not cold or hosed down. If the pet is responsive small amounts of cool water should also be offered.

Once the animal is cooled down he or she must be taken to a veterinary hospital. Intravenous fluid therapy may be required for animals with heatstroke.

FROSTBITE

Signs and symptoms of a pet suffereing from FROSTBITE are:

  • Skin may appear pale or gray
  • Area will be cold and hard to the touch

Areas most commonly affected are the tips of ears, tail, scrotum, feet and toes. Immediate emergency care is required for an animal suffereing from frostbite. Do not rub or massage the area. Never use hot water on the area. Do not use a heating pad or hair dryer. Do not give pain medication. See your vet A.S.A.P.!

Be sure you're aware of the signs for heatstroke and frostbite. Keep these guidelines handy for quick reference.

Information kindly provided by Kennelwood Village

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