Spotting the early signs of canine heat stroke this summer

As a dog owner, you know just how enjoyable the summer weather can be with your canine. Trips to the beach, the dog park and taking extra long walks around the neighborhood are just a few of the activities to look forward to. However, when the temperatures start to get into the 90s and even higher, heat stroke and dehydration are potentially deadly ailments that you'll have to look out for. Thankfully, with a bit of preparation and know-how, you and your dog will be able to enjoy the weather worry-free. Here are symptoms to look out for during your next outdoor excursion.

1. Restlessness. When your canine is experiencing the beginning stages of heat stroke, he or she may start to exhibit mood swings and erratic behavior, reports PetWave.com. Your pooch may start to seem agitated, begin to whine, bark or lose the ability to walk in a straight line. Don't ignore these warning signs and consider feeling your canine's skin for exorbitant heat. If the skin feels much warmer than usual, this could signal a major rise in your canine's body temperature, and you should get him or her into the shade as soon as possible.

2. Excessive drooling. While dogs are known to keep their mouths open on very hot days, when your furry friend starts to salivate a bit more than normal, this could be a sign of trouble. Your canine may also start foaming at the mouth or start to lick his or her gums due to extreme dryness. With all this excessive panting, your pooch may also have difficulty breathing - take a step back and find a shady spot and a water source to recharge your dog's batteries.

Now that you know that your dog could be suffering from heat stroke, DogChannel.com suggests using cool - not cold - water to get him or her hydrated. You may also want to spread some water on your dog's paw pads, as well as the inner thighs and stomach. These parts of the body are closer to major blood vessels and can assist in cooling down your companion much sooner. Of course, it's always safer to call your veterinarian or visit a Bideawee Animal Hospital if you're in the New York area to give your canine rapid care when needed most.