We live in the south and the summers get very hot here.   This could lead to a dog becoming overheated or having a Heatstroke.  Because of this, I have taken a Pet First Aid and CPR class to learn how to best care for the pets entrusted to me.  I enjoyed the knowledge and class so much that I continued getting educated in Pet First Aid and CPR so I could become an instructor and pass on this knowledge to help educate fellow Professional Pet Sitters and pet owners.  Hopefully this will help you.  If there is any reason to cause you to be concerned that your dog is becoming overheated, call your veterinarian right away.

Here are causes, signs and actions to take to treat the dog:

Causes:

• A dog or pet left in a confined space with little or no ventilation during high temperatures    ( a guideline would be outdoor temperature of 90F +)  with high humidity
• A dog or pet left in high temperatures ( a guideline would be outdoor temperature of 90 F+)  with high humidity with little or no water
• Over exerting while playing or walking in high temperatures (90+)  with high humidity
• Older and very young dogs, also breeds with a short nose are less able to cope with high temperatures and high humidity

Signs:

• Uncontrollable panting
• Foaming at the mouth
• Lethargy
• Vomiting and/or loss of consciousness
• Tongue and gums becoming blue or gray

Actions to take:

• Bathe or hose your dog with COOL water until the body temperature subsides or
• Place the pet in a cool, ventilated space and wrap in a wet, cold sheet or towel
• Call your veterinarian or emergency veterinarian clinic for further instructions