Suddenly Saturday and Preventing Heat Stroke

"With warm weather on the horizon (finally!) we need to be aware of how our canine friends are effected from the heat. Bulldogs and other short nose breeds are more prone to breathing issues in warmer weather and can suffer from heat stroke more readily. The following link to Vet Depot contains a great reference chart for symptoms of heat stroke. Though it is helpful one should guard against this occurring to begin with. If its over 75 degrees it becomes uncomfortable for bulldogs and instead of taking them for a walk during the day please wait until evening hours when the sun is down and the weather has cooled off a bit! 

I have found that Ozzie and now Nala prefer to stay inside with the A/C going watching the Animal Planet channel! Probably the best place to be for a bulldog during the summer!"

I have found that Ozzie and now Nala prefer to stay inside with the A/C going watching the Animal Planet channel! Probably the best place to be for a bulldog during the summer!

"Say ahh!"

Finally Friday and to Hot to Trot!

Saying it's hot outside is putting it mildly! The northeast is now in the middle of some of the hottest weather yet of the summer. It was so hot yesterday that I saw two trees fighting over a dog! Rim shot please!
All the kidding aside it's dangerously hot for man and beast. Today's temperatures in the New York metro area is suppose to be 104 degrees with a heat index of 110 degrees! As I look at my thermometer it reads 89 degrees as the outside temp in the shade and it's only 8:15 AM!
As you know heatstroke can kill your dog very quickly. Especially Bulldogs and other short snout breeds. Their narrow tracheas and flat noses make it even more difficult to exchange air by panting. It is recommended when its over 80 degrees to keep your bully in the AC. All the outside that Ozzie has seen is to do his business in the back yard!

Here are some of the signs of heat stroke to look out for in your dog.

• Increased rectal temperature (over 104° requires action, over 106° is a dire emergency)
• Vigorous panting
• Dark red gums
• Tacky or dry mucus membranes (specifically the gums)
• Lying down and unwilling (or unable) to get up
• Collapse and/or loss of consciousness
• Thick saliva
• Dizziness or disorientation

To read more on what to do if your dog exhibits any of these symptoms: Here is the rest of this informative article on heat stroke and your dog. (Of course never hesitate to call your vet!)

It would be a good time to make those yogurt pupsicles that I spoke about the other week.
Another frosty treat is to get some low sodium beef broth and pour it into ice cube trays to make some beefsicles.

Whatever you do today hydrate yourself and keep your pup indoors except for the necessary poddy breaks. Stay cool my friends and have a safe and wonderful weekend!