ReportWire

Tag: heatstroke

  • Be Prepared: Common Emergencies Every Dog Parent Should Know | Animal Wellness Magazine

    Be Prepared: Common Emergencies Every Dog Parent Should Know | Animal Wellness Magazine

    Dog parents see their fair share of emergency cases. But here’s the good news: being informed about common emergencies can help you stay calm and take the right actions when your dog needs you most. Here are some situations you should be aware of.

    When Your Dog’s Belly Becomes a Ticking Time Bomb

    Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), is a life-threatening condition in which a dog’s stomach fills with gas and potentially twists on itself. Large, deep-chested breeds are especially prone. Watch for symptoms like a swollen abdomen, unsuccessful attempts to vomit, and restlessness. If you suspect bloat, it’s crucial to get to a vet immediately – this is a true emergency where every minute counts.

    When Fun in the Sun Turns Dangerous

    Dogs can’t sweat like we do, making them vulnerable to overheating. Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, reddened gums, vomiting, and collapse. If you suspect heatstroke, move your dog to a cool area immediately, offer small amounts of water, and use cool (not cold) water to wet their coat. Then, head to the vet right away.

    Curiosity Can Be Toxic

    Dogs are curious creatures, sometimes to their detriment. Common toxins include chocolate, xylitol (found in sugar-free gum), grapes and raisins, onions, and certain plants. Symptoms of poisoning vary but can include vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, or collapse. If you suspect your dog has ingested something toxic, call your vet or a pet poison helpline immediately.

    When Accidents Happen

    Whether it’s a car accident, a fall, or a fight with another animal, trauma can lead to serious injuries. Look for signs like limping, bleeding, swelling, or changes in behavior. Even if external injuries aren’t apparent, internal damage could be present. When in doubt, a vet visit is always the safest decision.

    When Your Dog’s Brain Short-Circuits

    Witnessing your dog have a seizure can be terrifying. During a seizure, clear the area around your dog to prevent injury, and never put your hand near their mouth. Time the seizure if possible. Once it’s over, keep your dog calm and call your vet. If the seizure lasts more than five minutes or your dog has multiple seizures, it’s time for immediate veterinary care.

    When Something’s Stuck

    If your dog is choking, they may paw at their mouth, gag, or have difficulty breathing. For a conscious dog, you can try gently removing the object if you can see it. If you can’t, or if your dog loses consciousness, perform the canine Heimlich maneuver and rush to the vet.

    The Bottom Line: Be Prepared, Not Scared

    While these situations are scary, remember that knowledge and quick action can make all the difference. Keep your vet’s number and the nearest emergency vet clinic’s information easily accessible. Consider taking a pet first aid course to feel more confident in handling emergencies.

    Remember, you’re your dog’s first line of defense in an emergency. By staying informed and prepared, you’re giving your best friend the best chance at a quick recovery should the unexpected occur. Here’s to happy, healthy adventures with your canine companion!


    Post Views: 104


    Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

    Animal Wellness

    Source link

  • Experts Share 10 Quick Tips To Keep Your Home Cooler In This Heatwave

    Experts Share 10 Quick Tips To Keep Your Home Cooler In This Heatwave

    This is shaping up to be the hottest summer on record, with triple digit temperature spikes around the nation. That spells extreme health and safety risks for people who work outdoors, as well as for those who run, cycle and hike or, sadly, find themselves homeless. According to the Centers for Disease Control, those most at risk for heat-related illness are infants and children four and younger, people aged 65 and older, and people with existing medical conditions like diabetes or heart disease.

    If these describe a member of your household, some of the 10 tips below – like adding a fan, changing bulbs and adding window protection – should be focused on their rooms first. Health and safety are two crucial facets of wellness design!

    Here are a range of pro tips for the entire household, including some that won’t cost a cent and can be implemented this weekend.

    1. Block the sun by closing your window shades, blinds or drapes during the hottest parts of the day. This can lower your home’s indoor temperature even if you lack air conditioning or your local utility imposes rolling stoppages.
    2. If you were planning on replacing your window coverings, this is a good time to consider new ones that add to your home’s energy efficiency and keep it cooler while doing so. Look for energy performance ratings for the ones that will work the hardest for you.
    3. Another option to keep your interiors cooler is to add window film. This can also protect your skin, furniture, art and rugs from UV damage. Architect Magazine says these products can block 99% of UV rays and cut utility costs by 30% to 40%, but there are some surmountable cons (and shopping tips), which the professional magazine lists.
    4. Avoid using a gas cooktop or stove. A portable induction burner will do the same job without heating up your kitchen.
    5. Avoid using your oven, which can also make a kitchen hotter. If possible, eat foods that don’t need to be baked or broiled, grill outdoors (under a shade cover), or use a toaster oven instead.
    6. Use fans, which can create a cooler air effect in the room. They only need to be used in a room where you’re working, relaxing or sleeping, so there’s no wasted energy.
    7. If it’s cool enough to open your windows with fans on, do so across your home to create a cross-ventilation effect.
    8. Replace any remaining incandescent lights that add heat to your home with LED or compact fluorescent models that don’t.
    9. Home improvement expert Bob Vila recommends unplugging any power strips when they’re not in use.
    10. Vila also suggests doing laundry at night when it’s cooler.

    Here are some longer-term heat-beating solutions that involve remodeling, from a Forbes.com article I wrote last July when it wasn’t even this terribly hot in most of the country. It’s worth revisiting now.

    Jamie Gold, Contributor

    Source link