Handling Dehydration And Heatstroke In Your Pet

Exercising with your pet can be one of the great joys in life. I know that Saturday hiking excursions, early morning jogs on the beach, or winter playtimes in the snow with my dog are always a delight for me.

But unfortunately, exercise--particularly in warm weather--can present some of the same dangers to dogs and cats as it does to people. In fact, companion animals can be even more susceptible to heatstroke because dogs and cats don't sweat as a way to regular body temperature. So what do you need to do to either avert or respond to a crisis for your pet?

First, let me give a little plug for my personal pet ideology: domesticated cats should not be outdoor animals. Multiple studies have shown that indoor cats significantly outlive cats allowed to roam freely outdoors. Their quality of life is NOT diminished by being "confined" to your apartment or house, as long as their needs are met: nutritious food, water, entertainment, love, and a comfortable place to sleep.

Keeping your kitty inside will dramatically reduce or eliminate the possibility of him or her becoming dehydrated, developing heatstroke, or contracting diseases or parasites. But even if you keep your cat indoors at all times, he or she should still have a microchip.

With that being said, make sure that you take extra water and a bowl whenever you go out with your pet. Portable bowls are usually available at pet supply and camping supply stores. While most dogs can drink from sources of flowing water safely, it is best to provide them with purified water. NEVER let them drink from stagnant water unless they have been fully vaccinated, and even then, it is less than desirable.

If your animal is showing signs of dehydration--lethargy, weakness, a change in their eyes, etc.--then you may have to force them to drink with a bottle, eyedropper, or turkey baster. Cats may be enticed to drink by adding sodium-free chicken broth to their water. Dogs may benefit from snacking on ice cubes, so feel free to offer them some.

Heatstroke is a very serious ailment that can claim your pet's life. Try to avoid taking your dog out for exercise when the temperature outside exceeds 98 degrees Fahrenheit, but heatstroke can still happen when the weather is below that.

Moderate heatstroke will be marked by bright red gums and tongue, along with excessively thick and sticky saliva. Dogs pant to regulate temperature, but panting will grow rapid. At that point, immediate first aid needs to be applied. Contact your vet immediately.

Enlist the help of a friend, family member, or neighbor to help administer cold water to mouth and body. Prevent brain swelling by placing a cold wash cloth to the back of Fido's neck and then an ice pack on top of the wash cloth. In severe cases, artificial respiration and CPR may be necessary, but hopefully it will never get to that point. Make sure that you have developed a rapport with a vet that offers emergency care so that you know where to go in any pet crisis.