West Palm Beach is on its 40th day of temperatures hitting 90 degrees and above in a row, and the heat is not going anywhere anytime soon. As a result, pet owners should be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion in their pets, especially brachycephalic dogs like Frenchies, pugs, and bully breeds, as well as older dogs.
According to Victoria Koehler, the medical director at Furry Friends, some common signs of heat exhaustion in pets include brick-red gums, thick saliva, extreme exhaustion, and lethargy. If you notice any of these signs, it is recommended to get your dog to a cooler environment and get them water immediately.
Cool towels, wrapping them around the paws, the neck, and the head, can help lower your dog’s body temperature. Additionally, encouraging them to drink water and taking them to the vet as soon as possible is crucial.
Prevention is Key
The hottest part of the day is usually from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., but in South Florida, the humidity should also be taken into consideration. Walking your dogs around sunrise and sundown, the cooler parts of the day, can help keep them safe.
Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.
