WEATHER WARNING: Signs of heat stroke in dogs

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The scorching heat in parts of KwaZulu-Natal has prompted warnings against related injuries.

While human can help themselves out of heatwaves, some animals need our help.

The SPCA Amazintoti has advised dog owners on early signs to detect a heat stroke.

According to the organisation, a heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a dog's body temperature rises too high and can't be cooled effectively. 

Early signs of heatstroke in dogs include heavy panting (progressing to distressed or noisy breathing as the heatstroke worsens), drooling, red gums or tongue, increased heart rate, vomiting, or diarrhoea, being warm to touch, a dry nose, being quiet or poorly responsive.

Advanced signs include lethargy, confusion, weakness or collapse, seizures. 

Extreme signs can include blood from mouth or in stool, muscle tremors, ataxia (staggering), coma, death. 

Here's what to do if you suspect your dog has heatstroke, courtesy of SPCA Amanzimtoti:

1. Remove your dog from the hot environment to a cooler space. 
2. Gradually lower your dog's body temperature by wetting them down with a hose or bucket of cool water (not ice-cold water to avoid shock)
3. Ensure that they drink water, even if you have to use a syringe. Tap water (15-16°C) has been found to be the most effective at cooling dogs with heat-related illnesses, although in a true emergency, any water is better than nothing. 
4. Transport to a vet immediately

Source: SPCA Amazintoti 

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