Protecting Your Pet: Heat Stroke

That's why heat stroke is common among animals.

Dr. Cristina Comartin from the Alton Road Animal Hospital: "It only took 10 to 15 minutes for him to have a heat stroke. And of course I was really frightened."

Veterinarian, Cristina Comartin thought sugar was safe because he was swimming in the pool.

Dr. Comartin: "When I called him to come back in, he was foaming at the mouth with a temperature of 106."

Dr. Cromatin: "They should always have water available for the dogs, they can try spritzing the dog down with water."

Playing fetch or going for a walk can be dangerous.

Dr. John Barr from the Alton Road Animal Hospital: "I think what people need to know is basically not to walk their dogs in the middle of the day."

When it's this hot you've got to be careful walking them even early in the morning and in the evenings. Dogs and cats don't have sweat glands like we do to keep them cool. They pant to release their heat and their cooling systems just aren't that good.

Dr. Barr: "If they have one of the flat-faced breeds, like an English bulldog, they need to be extra careful the Boston terriers, those dogs are really susceptible to this."

Dark-haired - overweight and older pets are also at greater risk.

Heat stroke warning signs: Heavy panting, foaming at the mouth, moving slowly or stopping - bright red gums, collapsing and losing consciousness are very serious.

If you see any of these things get them out of the sun ASAP. Cool them down with water but not too cold, it can cause shock...And then...

Dr. Barr: "You need to get that dog to the vet."

Also never leave animals in a parked car with no AC or the windows up!

Don't ''drop the ball'' catch our drift...The heat is nothing to play around with.

Keep it cool and they'll be...

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Contact:mmitzel@wsvn.com

Dr. John Barr
Alton Road Animal Hospital
1828 Alton Road
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 674-7387
www.altonroad.petplace.com