Summer is finally here and that means one thing- it’s time for heat waves! While most of us can’t avoid the heat, our furry friends have to deal with it every day.
Especially dogs, who naturally pant due to the high temperatures, can quickly become dehydrated and sick during a heat wave. In this blog article, we are going to discuss some of the signs that your dog is experiencing heat stress and what you can do to help them.
We will also go over some tips on how to avoid or mitigated heat stroke in your dog and how to treat any symptoms that they may experience. Stay cool and hydrated this summer and get ready for some fun outdoor activities with your furry friend by following these tips!
What Are The Symptoms Of A Dog In Heat?
There are a few symptoms to watch out for if you think your dog might be in heat. The first is a change in behavior. Your normally calm and collected pup may become restless and agitated. She may also start urinating more frequently, even inside the house.
Another symptom to look for is an increase in appetite. Your dog may start begging for food more often or start raiding the trash can. This is due to hormonal changes that occur during the heat.
Lastly, you may notice your dog’s vulva becoming swollen and red. This is another physical change that occurs during heat. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to take your dog to the vet so they can confirm whether or not she’s in heat.
What The Dog Causes These Symptoms?
There are a few different things that could be causing your dog to act weird during the heat. One possibility is that she’s feeling uncomfortable due to the increase in her body temperature. Dogs typically have a body temperature that’s about 2-3 degrees higher than ours, so when it gets hot outside, they can really start to feel the heat! Another possibility is that she’s feeling overwhelmed by all of the new smells and sounds that come along with springtime. When there are more people and animals out and about, it can be sensory overload for our furry friends. Finally, it’s also possible that your dog is just acting normal for this time of year! Many dogs tend to be more playful and energetic during the spring and summer months, so if your pup is acting a little bit differently, it might just be because she’s feeling the seasonal change.
If you’re concerned about your dog’s behavior during heat, the best thing to do is to talk to your veterinarian. They can help you rule out any medical causes and give you some tips on how to keep your dog comfortable during this time of year.
How Can You Help Your Dog During This Time?
There are a few things you can do to help your dog during this time:
– Keep them cool: Make sure they have access to plenty of fresh, cool water and shade. If it’s particularly hot outside, you might even consider putting them in a kiddie pool or filling up a spray bottle with water to help them cool down.
– Avoid strenuous activity: Just like humans, dogs can overheat if they overexert themselves. So, it’s important to avoid any strenuous activity during this time. This includes long walks, runs, or hikes. Stick to shorter walks around the block instead.
– Watch for signs of heat stroke: Heat stroke is a serious condition that can be fatal for dogs. Signs of heat stroke include heavy panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, and seizures. If you notice any of these signs, immediately move your dog to a cool area and call your veterinarian.
What Should You Avoid Doing During This Time?
There are a few things you should avoid doing during your dog’s heat cycle. For one, do not bathe them too frequently as this can dry out their skin. You also want to avoid using any harsh shampoo or soap that could irritate your skin. In addition, refrain from using any flea or tick products during this time as they can be toxic to dogs. Lastly, avoid trimming your dog’s fur too short as this can make them more susceptible to heatstroke.
How Long Does The Heat Last For Dogs?
The heat, or estrus cycle, lasts anywhere from 9-18 days. During this time, your dog will be attracted to male dogs and may even seem a bit restless. She may also urinate more frequently during this time. If you plan on breeding your dog, this is the time to do so. If not, it’s important to keep her away from males and make sure she doesn’t get pregnant.
Conclusion
We hope you now have a better understanding of the heat cycle and how it affects your dog. It is normal for them to act differently during this time and there are ways you can help make them more comfortable. Just be sure to avoid any activities that could put them in danger and always consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns. Heat cycles usually last about 3 weeks, so hang in there- the end is in sight!