Hello <<First Name>>,

Summer is here.  Along with all the fun activities you can enjoy with your pet there is also an increased risk of Heat Stroke, also known as hyperthermia.  Heat stroke generally results from exposure to a stimulus, such as inflammation or exposure to heat.  It is a very serious condition that requires urgent medical attention.  Your dog does not sweat like you do.  They don't have sweat glands in their skin although they do have some on thier nose and on the paw pads.  A dog will typically release excess heat through panting and sweating where they do have sweat glands.  A dog's body temperature will begin to rise when they can't effectively dispel heat.  Once their temperature reaches 106 damage to the organs and cellular structure may become irreversable.   

• Increased body temperature (determine with a rectal thermometer, 101 is normal for dogs)  Anything over 104 requires action, over 106 is an emergency.
• Vigorous panting
• Bright cherry red gums
• Tacky or dry gums
• Inability or unwillingness to get up
• Collapse and/or loss of consciousness
• Thick saliva
• Dizziness or disorientation

• First, get your dog out of the heat and away from the sun.
• Place cool wet rags on your dog's body, especially on the paw pads and head, to begin cooling them.
• Offer your pet cool water to drink but don't force it.
• DON'T use extremely cold water to cool your pet. Extreme cold can cause the blood vessels to constrict which will hinder the cooling process.
• You can stop the cooling process when their temperature reaches 103.
• Call your vet right away and be prepared to get to the office. Internal damage may not be immediately evident and an exam is probably needed.