HEAT STROKE IN DOGS.

Heat stroke also referred to as heat prostration occurs when there is an elevated temperature. Dogs are very uncomfortable in hot environment than in cold regions.Dogs can easily suffer heat stress leading to prostration and consequently death within a short period. Ventilation is very important to health of pet,thus we need to ensure the environment is airy and conducive.Dogs cool themselves by panting which progressively become ineffective in extreme heat,poor ventilation or when pet is dehydrated because of lack of moisture on the tongue. Conditions that predisposes to heat stress are as follows 1) extreme temperatures. 2) locking a door in a car with windows up. 3) tying a dog in the sun for a long time. 4) exercising your dog on a hot day. Signs of heat stroke ; 1) restlessness 2)excessive panting. 3)weakness. 4) ropy,stringy saliva. 5) lying on the side,with extended limbs. What to do when you observe signs of heat; 1) take pet to cool area.2) give fresh cool water 3) cool the pet down. Cooling the pet down must not be rapid by pouring water on dog or bathing dog;, rather you use cold rags on the back line and cool the paws. A swab of alcohol can be rubbed on the back line to bring the temperature down and then seek veterinary attention to ascertain the condition of the dog.