Utah’s summer heat can be dangerous – especially for dogs. From weekend hikes to short walks on hot pavement, dogs are vulnerable to heatstroke even during brief outdoor activities. At BluePearl Midvale, our emergency medicine team treats heat emergencies every summer. Fast action can prevent serious complications or even save your dog’s life.
Signs of heatstroke in dogs.
Get to an emergency vet immediately if your dog shows any of these symptoms:
- Rapid, heavy panting
- Bright red gums or tongue
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Lethargy, collapse, or confusion
- Seizures or unresponsiveness
- Sticky saliva or glazed eyes
Dogs most at risk of heatstroke in Midvale.
Some dogs are especially vulnerable in hot weather:
- Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds like bulldogs or pugs
- Senior dogs and puppies
- Overweight pets
- Dogs with heart or respiratory conditions
- Pets left in parked cars or without shade
What to do if your dog overheats.
- Move your dog to a shaded or air-conditioned area
- Offer cool (not ice-cold) water to drink
- Wet their paws, stomach, and neck with cool water
- Avoid ice baths – they can cause shock
- Bring your pet to our ER as soon as possible
How BluePearl Midvale treats heatstroke.
Our emergency team will assess your dog and may begin:
- IV fluids to rehydrate and regulate temperature
- Oxygen therapy
- Bloodwork to check for organ damage
- Hospitalization for continued monitoring
Preventing heatstroke in the future.
Avoid exercise during the hottest part of the day, always carry water, and never leave a dog in a parked vehicle. Watch for early warning signs of overheating – and call us if you’re ever unsure.
Understanding heatstroke in dogs in Midvale – FAQ.
Heatstroke can be a life-threatening condition for dogs, especially during Utah's hot summer months. If your dog exhibits any of the following symptoms, it is crucial to get to an emergency vet immediately: rapid, heavy panting; bright red gums or tongue; vomiting or diarrhea; lethargy, collapse, or confusion; seizures or unresponsiveness; and sticky saliva or glazed eyes. Recognizing these signs early can be vital for your dog's health.
Certain dogs are particularly vulnerable to heat-related issues. Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds, such as bulldogs and pugs, are at higher risk due to their compromised breathing. Senior dogs, puppies, overweight pets, and dogs with existing heart or respiratory conditions are also more susceptible. Additionally, pets left in parked cars or without access to shade can quickly overheat, making it essential to monitor them closely in hot weather.
If you suspect your dog is overheating, take immediate action by following these steps: move your dog to a shaded or air-conditioned area, offer cool (not ice-cold) water for them to drink, and wet their paws, stomach, and neck with cool water. Avoid giving ice baths, as they can cause shock. It is crucial to bring your pet to our emergency room as soon as possible for further evaluation and treatment.
Upon arrival at BluePearl Midvale, our emergency team will assess your dog's condition and may initiate treatment that includes administering IV fluids to rehydrate and regulate body temperature, oxygen therapy, and bloodwork to check for any organ damage. In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary for continued monitoring and care. Our goal is to stabilize your dog and ensure their recovery.
Preventing heatstroke is essential for your dog's safety during the summer months. Avoid exercising your dog during the hottest parts of the day, always carry water for hydration, and never leave your dog in a parked vehicle, even for a short time. Additionally, be vigilant for early warning signs of overheating, and don’t hesitate to call us if you are ever unsure about your pet's condition.
Heatstroke can escalate rapidly and lead to serious complications or even death if not addressed promptly. Fast action can make a significant difference in your dog's outcome. At BluePearl Midvale, our emergency medicine team is trained to respond effectively to heat emergencies, ensuring your pet receives the necessary care as quickly as possible.
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