Heat Stroke:
One of the most common summer ailments dog suffer from is heat stroke.This can come on very rapidly even if your dog has not been outside in the heat for a prolonged period of time. If your dog shows any of the following signs, move him to a shady spot and pour cool water all over his body and then take him to the vet immediately:
Heavy panting
Glazed eyes
Rapid pulse
Bright red gums
Unsteadiness
Vomiting
Atopy
Atopy is an itchy skin disease of animals that is caused by an allergy to substances in the environment that are contacted through the air, either by absorption through the respiratory tract or contact through the skin. Atopy is thought to be an inherited disease and is the second most common allergic skin condition in dogs; only flea allergy dermatitis is more common.
Symptoms of atopy usually begin relatively early in life, often by one year of age. Symptoms usually are seasonal at first, with most dogs showing clinical signs in the summer months when airborne allergens (such as plant pollens) are present in higher concentrations. As atopic dogs age, their symptoms tend to become less seasonal as they become allergic to more substances. Eventually, their itchiness can occur year-round.
Diagnosis and Treatment Notes:
Atopy is generally diagnosed by a thorough history, physical examination, skin scrapings and possibly allergy testing (blood tests or intradermal testing).
Treatment depends on the severity of the disease, your individual pet, and your veterinarian. Discuss treatment details when your pet is diagnosed with this condition.
What to Watch for*:
Licking or chewing at skin, especially paws
Scratching or rubbing muzzle and/or ears
Frequent head shaking
Red, inflamed skin
Oh , spring time, flowers blooming, trees turning green once more and the anticipation of warm weather and the good 'ol summertime.
All of the above can be a nightmare for some of our Bulldog buddies.
Pollen, and other airborne allergens can make some dogs miserable.
The heat of the summer is cruel and unrelenting, usually still sweltering even when the sun goes down.
So with a little help from the Pet Portal through our beloved Vet,
Dr. Gwynn Hardee at Meadow Lawn Animal Services we are providing the following information for some hot weather conditions and symptoms to watch for.
