Monday, July 18, 2022

Heat Stroke In Dogs

Summer in the south is no joke. Around this time of year, it is not uncommon for the temperature to climb to the high 90s or even into the triple digits. If you spend much time outdoors, it is essential to take care of yourself, stay cool, apply sunscreen, drink lots of water, and be alert for the signs of heat-related illnesses, both in yourself and your furry friends.

Because dogs also have fur, they are at extra risk of overheating and suffering from heat stroke. Since they cannot verbalize how they are feeling it can be easy to miss the signs. However, if you know what to look for, you can also know how to prepare and keep your dog happy, happy, healthy, and safe. 

What Are the Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs?

Sometimes you can take all the precautions with your pup but still might have cause for concern. It is important that you recognize the symptoms of heat stroke in your dog, so you can know how to help them as quickly as possible. Some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Hard breathing. This could include panting, wheezing, or straining to catch their breath. 
  • Lethargy or disorientation. This could look like a normally active and energetic dog sleeping at unusual times or not responding quickly when its name is called.
  • Seizures. This can be as small as muscle twitching or as extreme as passing out.
  • Unusual-looking gums. If your dog’s gums are dry, the color looks different, or there is bruising on them, this could be a sign of heatstroke. 
  • High temperature. If a rectal thermometer reads higher than 103

Now that you know what to look for and can be prepared to help your dog if necessary. 

What Can I Do If I Think My Dog is Having a Heat Stroke?

If you suspect your dog might be suffering from heat stroke, first make sure to get them to a cool shaded place with access to a fan. Next, gently pour cool (not cold) water on their head, stomach, paws, and armpits. While you are applying the water, make sure the fan is running and blowing on them. Lastly, get them into a vet as soon as possible. 

Some things you can do to help prevent heatstroke include:

  • Leaving muzzles off. Muzzles restrict airways and keep dogs from being able to pant which helps them cool down.
  • Offering water. Encourage your dog to drink water after every walk or even if the dog has been playing out in the yard on a warm day.
  • Providing shade. If you need to leave your dog outside for a long time, make sure there is plenty of shade and water within easy access. 

Most importantly, whenever possible take your dog on a walk during the coolest parts of the day, early morning, or after the sun has set. 

Alternate Indoor Activities

Sometimes it is just too hot to take your dog out for anything other than a quick potty break. Because dogs still need mental and physical stimulation, you can try some of these activities in the cool of your home:

  • Tug of war. This is great for helping the energetic dogs stay active without the potential destruction of trying to play fetch indoors.
  • Puzzle games. You can hide a treat in one of several cups and then move them around. If they guess the correct cup, they get the treat as a reward.
  • Help with chores. If your hands are full (such as with laundry) you can have them push or pull open a door for you or point at something you need and have them fetch it for you.
  • Teach them a new trick. Hot days where walks are not possible are the perfect opportunity to try teaching that new trick you always wanted to try such as “Rollover” “Speak” or “Shake paws.”

As you try these, it may inspire other activities or interests that will keep your dog occupied indoors on warm days. 

Sources

https://www.meandmypets.com/blog/top-10-fun-indoor-activities-to-do-with-your-dog/
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/heat-stroke-in-dogs#:~:text=Dogs%20suffering%20from%20heatstroke%20can,disoriented%2C%20and%20can%20have%20seizures.

The post Heat Stroke In Dogs appeared first on Peak City Puppy.



source https://peakcitypuppy.com/heat-stroke-in-dogs/

Thursday, July 7, 2022

Raleigh Professional Dog Walker and Pet Sitters!

As the pandemic has started to wane and life returns to normal this also means that more and
more people are returning to the office. Perhaps you adopted a dog while you were working
from home the last couple of years and are now being required to come back into the office. Or
maybe you are an attorney or a doctor, working from home was never possible, and the care
you had for your dog is no longer an option and you are left scrambling.


Whichever situation you are in, you may be wondering what that means when it comes to
caring for your dog and making sure they get enough stimulation and exercise while you are not
there. If your profession requires long hours away from home and you live in a busy
metropolitan area like downtown Raleigh, finding care for your dog during the day may feel
like an overwhelming endeavor


While some professionals who work long hours opt to not have any pets, others desire the
companionship of their furry friends at the end of a long day and want the best care possible
for them. One option that some people choose is doggy daycare. However, there is a more
cost-efficient and convenient option that guarantees your pup is well cared for and able to stay
in the familiar environment of their own home and the area surrounding it.


At Peak City Puppy, we employ professional dog walkers to come to your home. We offer
midday dog walking and drop-ins between the hours of 10:30-3:30, so whether you work 8-
hour shifts, 12-hour shifts, or anything in between you can rest assured that your dog is not
alone or left without any social interaction.


Before being employed by you, each dog walker will come to meet you and your dog so that
they become familiar and comfortable with them and so that you can go over any routines or
individual needs your dog has that need to be taken care of during the day, including fresh
water, food, treats, or medications.


There are several different time options you can choose based on your dog’s individual needs
including the following:

10-minute walk. This is ideal for smaller or older dogs who do not need much
exercise. It gives them the chance to relieve themselves and get some fresh air.
20-minute walk. This is for those dogs who need regular exercise in addition to a
potty break.
30-minute walk. This is ideal for large dogs or those with a lot of energy.
Each of these dedicated professionals loves animals and will take great care of your dog(s)
while you are at work.

We hope you will choose us for your pet care needs and we look forward
to working with you.

The post Raleigh Professional Dog Walker and Pet Sitters! appeared first on Peak City Puppy.



source https://peakcitypuppy.com/raleigh-professional-dog-walker-and-pet-sitters/

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