Excessive heat can be a deadly situation for dogs and cats. Knowing the signs of pet dehydration and protecting your animal against heatstroke is extremely important during the summer months. If your furry animal is suffering from dehydration or heatstroke, contact All Care Animal Clinic in West Palm Beach to make an appointment with our veterinarian. Read on to learn the signs of heatstroke, what to do to prevent it, and what our veterinarian can do to help.
The Signs of Pet Heatstroke
When the temperature outside is hot, watch your pet closely for signs of dehydration. Pet heatstroke can happen quickly if a dog or cat is unable to cool down. An animal suffering from dehydration will likely search for water, be dizzy, or have a rapid heartbeat. Heatstroke can also causes animals to become lethargic, have difficulty walking around, or their muscles may start to seize from lack of moisture in the body.
How to Protect Your Pet in Hot Weather
Do not leave your pet outdoors for long durations of time if the temperature is expected to be uncomfortable. Do not encourage your dog to exercise outside. Instead, have your pet rest comfortably inside the house with the air conditioning on. If your pet needs to be outdoors for any reason, make sure it is in an area where trees are present so that he or she can get shade from the sun. Keep your animal's water bowl filled and bring along water if you need to leave your home with your dog or cat.
What Our Veterinarian in West Palm Beach Can Do To Help
If your pet is dehydrated, our veterinarian will need to administer IV fluids to help replace his or her electrolytes. We may use other methods to help control your pet’s temperature. If your pet is exhibiting signs of heat exhaustion or dehydration, bring your dog or cat to our animal clinic as soon as possible. This is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment.
Protect Your Pet from Dehydration and Heatstroke
Reach out to All Care Animal Clinic in West Palm Beach if your dog or cat requires pet services from our veterinarian. For more information about pet dehydration and heatstroke, call our animal clinic at (561) 688-1154.