Scorching Heat Takes a Toll on Pets in Goa: Here's What You Need to Know to Protect Your Fur Babies
Reagan Fernandes, a dog lover and experienced veterinary assistant from Lotoulim, recently experienced a heartbreaking loss when his 9-month-old mix breed dog, Dino, passed away from heat stroke.
On the day of the incident, Dino had been playing outside in the sun since the morning. Although the temperature was high, he appeared to be having fun chasing after balls, digging holes, and barking at birds. Around midday, Dino had a bit of frothy vomiting, but Reagan didn’t think much of it at the time. Dino had his mid-day snack and continued playing.
However, things took a turn for the worse in the afternoon. Dino was supposed to have his lunch at 1 pm, but he didn’t eat anything. Instead, he vomited everything he had eaten earlier. Suddenly, he seemed dehydrated and pale, and he became lethargic. As the evening approached, Dino was unable to get up or walk, and he showed no interest in any activity. His gums had turned white, indicating that something was seriously wrong.
Reagan tried to give Dino Electral, an oral rehydration solution, but Dino refused to drink any water. Since it was late at night, Reagan decided to take Dino to the vet in the morning. However, at midnight, Dino collapsed and passed away.
He realized that even the most beloved pet can be vulnerable to the dangers of heat, and that no amount of love and care can guarantee their safety. Reagan vowed to raise awareness about heat stroke in pets, and share his story with us hoping to prevent other pet owners from experiencing the same tragedy he did.
What is heat stroke?
Heatstroke is a serious condition that occurs when a dog’s body temperature rises above its normal range (usually around 38.1 to 39.2 degrees Celsius) and the body is unable to cool down on its own. This can be caused by exposure to high temperatures, high humidity, or inadequate ventilation.
During the summer months, temperatures in Goa, India can soar, and the high humidity can make it difficult for dogs to cool down. This can be particularly dangerous for dogs that are left outdoors without access to shade or water.
What do the vets have to say
We spoke to popular South Goa Vet, Dr. Aneesh Viegas who has some tips to share with you on how to take care of your furry friend.
According to Dr. Viegas, dogs do not sweat like humans, which means they need a flow of fluids on them to keep cool. “Flowing water is preferred, and pets in closed places, especially closed dog houses, need good air circulation to avoid suffocation,” he advises.
“Dogs need space to run and exercise regularly,” Dr. Viegas continues. “A daily walk and playtime with toys can help your dog stay healthy and active. Small tubs for a splash can be provided to help them cool down after playing or running.”
Dr. Viegas also emphasizes the importance of water for dogs. “Dogs need three waters of life – water to drink, water to play, and doctor drips,” if you have reached drips, the pets health is in precarious shape. He explains, “Ensure that your dog always has access to fresh drinking water, and monitor their intake to ensure they are adequately hydrated.”
When it comes to air conditioning, Dr. Viegas advises against keeping your dog in a too-cold room. “The difference between outside and inside temperature should not be very different,” he says. “Dogs need an appropriate temperature to stay healthy.”
While trimming a dog’s coat can be beneficial, Dr. Viegas cautions against over-trimming. “It’s better to run your hand through the coat so it remains aerated, and your dog stays cool,” he advises. “However, if your dog’s coat is too long, it might be necessary to trim it and if matted, it is a must.”
Dr. Viegas stresses that tying a dog’s mouth or muzzle can prevent them from cooling down and result in suffocation and death. “Never tie your dog’s mouth or muzzle, except to protect the vet for a short time” he warns.
If your dog exhibits any symptoms of illness, Dr. Viegas advises calling your vet immediately. “Dogs exhibit stage 1 and stage 2 symptoms when they are unwell,” he explains. “Stage 1 symptoms include hyper-excitement or total dullness, red eyes, thick saliva, and a dry nose. Stage 2 symptoms include vomiting, blood motions, and multi-organ failure.”
Dr. Viegas also warns against giving your dog ORS supplements without consulting your vet. “It may result in a spike in potassium or sodium levels, causing more harm than good,” he cautions.
Lastly, Dr. Viegas recommends chicken soup or diluted meals for dogs with digestive problems. Watery/soupy non veg food will help hydrate the dog. “However, always consult with your vet before changing your dog’s diet,” he advises.
Taking care of your dog requires effort and dedication, but the love and companionship they offer make it all worth it. By following these tips from Dr. Aneesh Viegas, you can help your furry friend stay healthy and happy. You can connect directly with Dr. Aneesh Viegas – 9823124400 for more guidance.
So what should you do
As the temperature rises, so does the risk of heat stroke in pets, particularly in areas with hot and humid weather like Goa. Heat stroke is a serious condition that can lead to organ failure, seizures, and even death if not treated promptly. As a responsible pet owner, it’s important to take all necessary precautions to prevent heat stroke and ensure your furry friend stays safe and healthy during the hot weather.
Some tips for preventing heat stroke in dogs include
- Providing plenty of fresh water, shade, and ventilation
- Avoiding strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day
- Never leaving your dog in a parked car or other enclosed space
- It’s also important to recognize the signs of heat stroke, such as excessive panting, lethargy, vomiting, and disorientation
- Seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect your dog is suffering from heat stroke.
In Goa, where the temperature is particularly high these days, it’s crucial to be extra vigilant in protecting your dog from the heat. By taking proactive steps to prevent heat stroke and being aware of the signs and symptoms, you can help keep your furry friend safe and healthy all summer long.
Remember, don’t wait too long to visit your vet if there are any indications of heat stroke – early detection and treatment can make all the difference in your dog’s recovery. Stay safe and enjoy the summer with your furry friend!
“Thank you for reading our blog. We at MASCOT Pet Central Hub are committed to providing you with valuable reads, helpful tips and advice on how to improve the well-being of your pet. If you found this information helpful, please consider sharing it with your friends and family who also have pets. Thank you for your support!”
#heatwave #summertime #goasummerheat #goapets #goapetlovers #mascotgoa
Chaitanya Malkarnekar
“Meet our blog author, Chaitanya Malkarnekar, a seasoned pet industry professional with over 13 years of experience. He along with his wife Dr. Sai have dedicated his career to helping pet owners provide the best care and support for their furry companions.
As always spot on. Always there to help. Keep up the good work and eagerly waiting for the next article. Cheers
Thank you Vikram. We will do our best.
Thanks for that Chaitanya. As a pet owner it’s important we garner as much information as possible to ensure a healthy & happy life for our furry babies. I definitely look forward to your next post.
Thanks for reading Ashley
Amazing Article ! Really informative. Will keep these tips in mind.
Thank you Matisha. We will cover more informative topics in the coming months.
hi great… very helpful…
Thank you Rakh
Excellent and informative article.
Grateful to you for the tips.
Keep writing.
Thank you Bhaskar. We will cover more informative topics in the coming months.
Thank you so much for sharing helpful information it will surely help to take care of r pet and your products are very useful thank you once keep it up 💯 mascot team 😊
Thank you Sweety maam
Useful article. Thank you
Very informative article. Thank you for sharing.
Great job creating awareness, do post more such ar
Very interesting article.
my Persian cat has all of a sudden stopped eating. We took him to a doctor and he said it’s a gastric problem. Today we again took him to the vet and he gave him drip.
very informative and well written. thanks for sharing
Hi .a very nice post and a good learning for all the pet lovers…agreed that its hot these days and pets might be easily vulnerable.Also keep some.water in small buckets outside ur house for the street dogs also who have nobody to care for. I would like to highlight on some things for everyone to know…..The worst doctors i have come across in goa …..1) Dr.veigas whose clinic is in borda 2) Dr.Anita whose clinic is in colva …..i have lost two of my loved ones coz of them. Dr. Ransley is another doctor who is never available when needed . Recently got a stray dog from.dead to life at the petyard clinic. Cost me a little but the dog is alive and rocking. So do ur research and find a good doc who is knowledgeable and know how to treat animals…..Dr. Natasha from.sonsoddo clinic was a good doctor but now she is transferred to quepem.
Interesting information.
Thanks for sharing.
Very interesting, and thanks for providing such a important and wonderful information, will be a great help for all d pet parents…
Very informative and well written article. The tips and insights in this, are truly helpful. As a pet owner myself, I thank you and everyone involved, for sharing your expertise with us. Looking forward to read more of your articles.
Not only our pets also try and help the strays.. keep a bucket of water/ bird bath.. let the needy get a relief in this scorching heat.. a simple gesture of care can a get smile 🐶🐮🕊️
Yes ,it’s very important that we individual’s do our part in a small way ,the best we can do
It’s very important for people to be aware of heat strokes in dogs. Good article… Will definitely share.
Wow very interesting !
Very intresting great Advice to follow to keep our pets safe
Very Thoughtful Chaitanya 👍👍 Let’s do something for “Strays” too.. 😺🐕🐶🐩
Great Chaitanya that you have started your blog it will be a great help for pet lovers……great going in your field keep it up……
Your article is full of information n useful for pet lovers …..proud of you dear Chaitu
Nice
Good Article
Great Article 👍🏻
Good Article
Good nice article. And I request all to keep water out side your house / flat balcony to birds and animals. Nature lover 💗🐱🐱
It’s Just wonderful wow
Very useful article! I take my dog for walks in the evening… his vest is a full body one. Should I change it or keep it?
I don’t recommend fully covered vest at afternoon … Heat gets trapped …. Evening is okay 👍
You can keep it on during the evening walks
This article is so helpful 😊
This will surely help pet parents to take care of their dogs in this scorching heat.
Thanks for sharing useful tips with the onset of summer.. thank you Mascot Team!
Avoid placing your pets in ac directly coming from heat exposure ….
Head, paws, belly – cool it down with water immediately after walks btwn 9 am to 5 pm….
– Professional Dog trainer
Thanks for sharing such a helpful information to pet parents and owners Kudos to Team Mascot Keep it up 👍👏
Tnx for the nice information. Keep it up👌
Nice article
👍🏻