3 Urgent Outdoor Threats To Your Dog's Health
A daily walk, woodland hike, or active day in the local park can appeal to your dog's sense of curiosity and natural desire to have fun. However, a wide range of potential dangers can cut the fun short and force you to bring your pet to an emergency animal clinic. Take a look at three such threats to your dog's health.
1. Heatstroke
Unlike humans, dogs rely primarily on panting instead of sweating to remain cool in hot conditions. When this system fails to keep your dog's body temperature under 105 degrees Fahrenheit, a potentially deadly condition called heatstroke may result. Symptoms include panting, confusion, drooling, vomiting, and fainting.
If you think your pet has heatstroke, wet it down with cool water and bring it to an emergency animal clinic immediately. The veterinarian can rehydrate your pet with intravenous fluids while also administering anti-seizure drugs or other medications as needed to rescue and rehabilitate your dog.
2. Snake Bites
A curious or careless dog in a wild outdoor environment can experience bites from either venomous or non-venomous snakes. Rattlesnakes, coral snakes, water moccasins, and copperheads can all inject venom into an animal. Snake bite symptoms can range from bloody urine and vomiting to muscle weakness and paralysis.
A venomous snake bite can prove deadly within hours with emergency care. your veterinarian will inject your dog with a neutralizing antivenin drug. With luck, your dog will respond favorably to this medication and show clear signs of recovery within 24 hours.
Even a non-venomous snake bite merits medical attention because of the infection risk. If you see bites on your dog's face, chest, or limbs, take your pet to an animal clinic so the veterinary team can sterilize the bite wounds.
3. Auto Accident Injuries
A dog that wanders into oncoming traffic can sustain acute injuries from an automobile collision. A dog hit by a car may experience complex fractures, internal or external hemorrhaging, ruptured organs, or a collapsed lung. These conditions require immediate veterinary evaluation and treatment.
Don't try to give your dog painkillers or treat its injuries yourself. Instead, place it on a soft towel in a box or crate and transport it carefully to the animal hospital. The veterinary team can perform emergency surgery if necessary to fix fractures, close open wounds, repair damaged organs, and replace lost blood.
After your dog recovers, you can take steps to protect it against future outdoor emergencies. For instance, you can feed your dog plenty of fresh, cool water during hot days to prevent heatstroke, walk your pet on a sturdy leash to prevent traffic injuries or avoid areas likely to harbor snakes. For more info, visit a local emergency vet clinic.