It’s hot out. And while people are busy trying to stay cool, animals are doing the same.
Russ Daly is the state public health veterinarian. He says it’s important to be able to tell when pets and livestock are no longer just hot, but instead suffering from heat stroke.
“When the animal becomes very lethargic and dopey, maybe it's not able to get up and walk and move around, like they normally can. That excessive panting and excessive drooling maybe has turned to dry mouth, indicating some dehydration, and as these conditions kind of progress the animal can actually get sick,”says Daly.
Daly says that once your pet starts displaying these symptoms it’s best to get them to a vet, but that putting cool water on their bellies or rubbing alcohol on the pads of their feet can help.
Daly says the best way to prevent heat stroke in animals is to make sure they have shade, plenty of water, and airflow while outside. He says most importantly, keep an eye on pets by not leaving them out in the heat all day.