THESummer – in general – is not the favorite season for our dogs. In particular, when, as in recent years, very high temperatures have come true to which their bodies resist with difficulty. The most recent study on their heat tolerance was carried out conducted by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in London in 2022, during one of the hottest summers ever. Out of a total of 384 cases of heat stroke Ascertained, 59.64% of the overall cases took place on the occasion of anomalous heat waves. The most commonly unleashing factors? Exercise (51.46%), the environment with high temperatures (31.02%) and hot vehicles (12.41%).
But the heat stroke for animals is not just a little excess heat: it can cause neurological damage, shock and death within a few minutes.
Why are dogs so sensitive to heat?
If dogs are so sensitive to heat, it is because, trivially, “they don’t sweat like us»Explains Monica Pais, veterinary of the Oristano Duemari clinic, the heart of the ODV ball effect onlus. “The only system they have To lower the body temperature is the heat from heat». That is, that very rapid anchor that makes the air back and forth on the mucous membranes of the mouth and tongue: a mechanism that allows the dispersion of heat through evaporation.
“But this system is not very efficient,” continues the veterinarian, “and in some brachycephant races, such as Bulldog, Carlini and Boxer, it can be practically ineffective. Hence the Risk of the highly high heat even at temperatures that we consider only annoying».
Dogs and heat: Monica Pais’s Vademecum against heat stroke
To better face this very hot summer, especially on the eve of holidays for the holidays, Pais has drawn up a small practical vademecum: tips for preventing serious health problems through simple precautions, both for those who stay in the city and for those traveling.
Food, fresh water and kennel
Always check that the dog has access to fresh water. Change the one in the bowl several times a day and to keep it fresh and thus entice him to drink in the Siberini bowl (the refrigerant plates that are used in the freezers).
Assee him a kennel in the shade, in a fresh and ventilated area.
Give him to eat in the freshest moments of the day.
Pay attention to floors with reflective surfaces in general, such as the floors of terraces or courtyards, which can reach high temperatures.
Make available to the dog, if possible, a water pool that can choose to use.
Walks and movement
Organize the walks as much as possible at times when the sun is less intense, early in the morning or in the evening; The hot asphalt can also burn the legs.
Avoid intense runs And play during the hottest hours, especially if the dog is elderly, it has pathologies, it is overweight or it is brachyx
The anti -blow rules during travel
Never leave them by car alone, not even for a few minutes with the open window.
On the road in the car, keep the air conditioning on medium temperatures on to ensure sustainable cooling and avoid thermal shocks out of the vehicle.
Plan regular stops during long -distance features, to make it clear and have a trusted trusted.
Heat stroke symptoms in the dog and what to do
The heat coup It can be fatal even after 48 hours from the eventtherefore it is essential to immediately bring the dog to the vet in the case of suspicious symptoms.
For example, If the dog eagerly anxiously, he is confused, weak, he has red and vomited mucous membranes, It must be cooled immediately by wetting it with fresh water. (But not frozen, because too quick cooling can cause vasoconstriction by worsening the clinical state).
It is advisable to put it in front of a fan or in a room with air conditioner. An immediate consultation from the vet is also appropriate in case of doubt.
If the dog is aware, provide him with fresh water to drink without forcing him.
Measure the rectal temperature with a digital thermometer. If it is greater than 40 degrees Continue to cool it until the veterinarians visit it.
I woman © RESERVED REPRODUCTION