How can I protect my pet from heatstroke?
-Physical activities adapted to the temperature (early morning/late evening walks, less strenuous physical effort, water games, etc.).
Access to cool, well-ventilated shaded areas
-Accessories to keep him cool and protected (spray bottle, cold mat, sun cream...).
-Do not leave your pet in an enclosed, poorly ventilated space (such as a car) or tied up.
-Plenty of water at all times, even during outings!
When in doubt about your pet's health: consult your veterinarian!
Don't leave your dog in the car!
A dog's body temperature rises three to five times faster than that of an adult human.
In less than 10 minutes in a car, the temperature can become fatal for your dog!
For example:
Outside temperature: 20°C -> after 10 minutes in a car: 30°C -> after 30 minutes in a car: 39°C
Outside temperature: 30°C -> after 10 minutes in a car: 39°C -> after 30 minutes in a car: 53°C
Outside temperature: 40°C -> after 10 minutes in a car: 47°C -> after 30 minutes in a car: 61°C
Signs of heat stroke:
-Increased body temperature (40°C to 43°C)
-Forced and accelerated breathing movements
-Rapid, loud, pronounced panting
-Hypersalivation
-Foaming mouth
Babines, truffle, purplish gums
-Rapid heartbeat
-Irregular heartbeat
-Dog staggers while walking or seems disoriented
-Unwilling or unable to get up
-Trembling
-Convultions
-Malaise
-Loss of consciousness
-Intestinal disorder with vomiting and diarrhea (sometimes with blood)
What should you do if your pet suffers from heatstroke?
-Lower your pet's temperature by wetting it with lukewarm/cool but not icy water!
-Apply wet towels to head, neck, chest, under legs, between thighs, underarms and lower abdomen.
-Swing a fan over the wet animal.
-If your pet can drink on its own, give it fresh water.
Continue these first-aid measures and get to a vet QUICKLY.
Did you know?
-Dogs refresh themselves by panting through their lungs.
-If the air breathed in is too hot, the animal can no longer evacuate the heat, damaging its brain and dying of suffocation.
-Heatstroke can occur in less than 5 minutes. The heat rises tragically in a car. In 10 minutes, the temperature can rise another 10 degrees.
-Your pet should not be subjected to heavy physical exertion (playing, walking, running...) when the temperature exceeds 22 degrees.
-You shouldn't shear your pet, because fur keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer! It also protects against the sun's harmful rays.
If you see an animal locked in a vehicle, try to find the owner quickly or notify a police officer.
