Extreme temperatures can be dangerous for humans but particularly so for their furry companions. Most people enjoy traveling during the summer season, including their dogs on the vacations. For humans, hydration replenishes the fluids in our body, allowing for sweat to help regulate the body’s temperature. But dogs aren’t capable of sweating in quite the same way, so without a way to control their temperature, the pup can become the victim of heatstroke. One treatment that pet parents are turning to is CBD oil. Learn about the substance at https://www.healthline.com/health/cbd-for-dogs .
Understanding The Concept Of Heatstroke
When your pet is exposed to heatstroke, internal organs are at risk for severe damage. The definition for heatstroke is as follows, quote “A disturbance of the temperature-regulating mechanisms of the body caused by overexposure to extreme heat with resultant fever, rapid, pulse, hot/dry skin, which has the potential to progress to delirium and finally coma.”
When a human gets overheated, they sweat in an effort to regulate the body’s temperature. The body consists of approximately 60% of water, allowing only so much sweating before a heatstroke episode.
A dog produces sweat but not consistent with the human process. For a dog, regulation of body temperature happens through the feet and mouths. Pet parents can attest, dogs pant profusely in the middle of a hot summer afternoon. With this effort, the skin’s moisture evaporates and encourages cooling the animal down. It’s comparable to splashing cold water on your face.
Why Do Animals Become Exposed To Heatstroke?
When a canine is exposed to excessive heat for an extended period, it will result in the condition. Merely because the temperature is high outside doesn’t mean your pup is going to experience this, but as a pet parent, you need to be cautious. Too often, puppies are left in hot cars with windows closed or chained outside the home without sufficient water. These cases can lead to severe stroking with detrimental results.
Pet parent neglect is not always the problem. Some breeds suffer from difficulty breathing in normal conditions but are more challenged in the heat leading to stroke. Flat-faced dogs such as pugs, bulldogs, and so many others endure “brachycephalia,” creating more considerable risk.
The breeds with thick fur or with too much weight on their body are more susceptible. For breeds prone to the condition, it’s critical to reduce their exposure by decreasing exercise like walks during the hottest points of the day.
How Does CBD Work In Reducing Symptoms Associated With Heatstroke In Dogs?
A pup recovering from heatstroke needs to be kept in shaded areas, supplied with plenty of fluids and provided plenty of rest time. Pet parents also have the option of using CBD oil for dogs in an effort to relieve symptoms through the healing phase.
Ideally, the first course of action when a puppy exhibits signs of the condition is an emergent visit to the dog’s regular vet. The illness requires fluids, and severe instances will need an IV drip.
Side effects, including diarrhea, vomiting, pain, and seizure, all have the potential to be helped with CBD, given the vet’s recommended dose.
Still, it would help if you inquired with the provider before the animal is released to go home. An added benefit is the compound’s potential relaxing the canine, allowing him to rest, something he needs lots of during his healing stage. Click for pros and cons of CBD oil for pups.
Final Thought
All dogs like to play and run in the outdoors regardless of the weather. It’s a pet parent’s responsibility to monitor play in extreme temperatures, ensure there is adequate water available, and limit exposure at the hottest points of the day.
CBD oil is not a cure for the condition. It would be best if you never began using a product instead of seeing a vet in any situation. With proper medical directives, the substance has the potential to reduce symptoms associated with stroking and the recovery process.
Pet parents shouldn’t have to worry about the loss of a pet, but if you don’t pay attention, a heatstroke can definitely be fatal for your dog. It’s vital to follow similar guidelines that you would if you were minding a child in the sun. You wouldn’t want to leave them in a car and certainly wouldn’t leave them outside without water. Speak to your vet for advice on prevention before the excessive heat comes to your area.
