Heat Strokes
It’s no secret that Labrador Retrievers enjoy participating in summer fun, especially swimming. While this may be one of the most exciting seasons of the year, you will want to prevent your dog from getting Heatstroke. There are a variety of tips that will help you and your Lab get through the summer heat without getting heatstroke. Follow these beneficial tips and you will make your Lab’s summer safe and fun.
NEVER leave your Lab in a Hot Car – Taking your Lab for a ride in the car or truck is fun. However, you will want to make sure that you don’t leave your dog in the hot car. Temperatures in a car rise quickly and can cause heatstroke in your dog. One of the best ways to avoid this is leaving your dog at home while you run errands.
Leaving Your Dog Outdoors for Long Time Frames – It is safe to allow your dog to go outside during hot summer days. But you will want to monitor the time frame. Always make sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water as well as shaded areas in the yard. Lack of these necessities on hot summer days in combination with extended periods of time can cause heatstroke.
Maintain a Healthy Weight for Your Lab – Dog owners are responsible for their Labrador Retrievers health and diet. If your pooch is overweight it can cause serious health issues and the excessive weight gain can cause your Lab to become heated quickly. Always provide a healthy diet and regular exercise for your dog in order to keep him or her well-balanced and at less risk of developing heatstroke.
Beware of Symptoms of Heatstroke – Keep a close eye on your Labrador Retriever as you enjoy summer activities. If you notice signs such as heavy panting, redness of the gums, excessive drooling, vomiting, lethargy and fainting, seek medical attention from a licensed veterinarian immediately.
Restrict Exercise – On hot humid summer days you will want to refrain from exercising outdoors. Exposure to high temperatures in combination to rapid heart rates due to exercise can lead to heatstroke. Always limit exposure to extreme weather conditions when necessary.
Keep Your Lab Cool – Some Labrador Retrievers enjoy living outdoors. However, on extreme hot summer days you will want to invite your dog indoors to stay cool in the air conditioning until temperatures reach a better suited level.
One of the most interesting methods to preventing heatstroke in your Labrador Retriever involves your sprinkler system. If your dog is outside, with access to plenty of drinking water and lots of options for shade, you can also assure that he or she stays cool by setting a timer on your sprinkler system. Allow your sprinklers to spray water so that your dog can run, jump and play in the water in order to stay cool. Always keep in mind that if it is too hot outside for you to exercise, it is the same for your Lab. Remember to take precautions and your Labrador Retrievers summer will be free from risk of heatstroke.
Source: Site
