We've heard frightening stories of a helpless child left in a car as the sun beats down on a hot day. Or an elderly person admitted to the hospital for heat stroke on a humid day spent inside.
But many people don't consider the peril they inadvertently put their pets in during summer -- especially joggers who bring their dogs along on a run. The two-birds, one-stone method of exercise is well-intentioned, but joggers should know the facts before taking to the pavement.
Humans can easily wipe away sweat midrun. A dog pants. This is how they sweat. And dog owners who are unaware of their pet's mechanism for releasing body heat can potentially hurt their dogs while trying to get them to exercise.
Dogs don't have as efficient a cooling system as humans do and are more prone to heat stroke. While humans have an entire layer of skin to release sweat and cool themselves, dogs release heat through their paws and mouths. And because dogs are such loyal companions, if physically capable, they will keep running with their owners, no matter what.
Kirsten Tarica, a licensed veterinary technician at Albany County Veterinary Hospital, sees people come in this time of year with pets suffering heat stroke. The culprit is usually an enclosed and idle hot car where dogs may be left while their owner runs an errand.
But she said at times, the hospital will see dogs who have been hit with heat stroke from a seemingly innocent jog with their owners. And heat stroke is potentially fatal in animals, not just humans.
What this means is that if you take your dog along for a jog in the sort of temperatures the Capital Region has been going through lately, he will probably overheat.
Ideal running times include early morning or late night, Tarica said, but with recent early morning temperatures of high 70s and low 80s, it's still not very safe.
'It really depends on the dog. Part of it is, can they breathe well when they're running? Humidity is a big factor. I wouldn't run with your dog in the 80s or 90s,' Tarica said.
Heat stroke symptoms include excessive panting, bright red gums, foaming at the mouth, vomiting, weakness and the inability to run or stand any longer. A dog's body temperature will be between 104degrees-110degrees Fahrenheit with heat stroke.
Because dogs release heat through their paws, running them on hot asphalt or pavement can also add to their risk of heat stroke, not to mention it is just plain uncomfortable. Tarica suggests running on grass or a dirt road, reducing the risk of heat stroke, pain and excoriating their paws.
'Think about it: Dogs don't wear shoes like we do. So you need to watch the kind of surface you're running your dog on.'
So what you should you do if you suspect symptoms of heat stroke in your pet? The first step is to stop and head to a shaded area. Give him water right away. If he drinks a lot too fast, he may vomit. Use cool water -- not ice water, which can constrict blood vessels -- to cool your pet.
'You can certainly take their temperature or check their gum color. As long as these return to normal in a couple minutes, they will be fine,' Tarica said. 'If you're concerned, give your vet a call.'
Another thing note before exercising your dog is its breed. Some dogs are better able to run with than others. Athletic breeds such as retrievers or German shepherds make good running companions. Brachycephalic breeds (short-headed dogs) and dogs with heart or respiratory problems should stay at home. But it may be easier to identify which breeds are not good to run with, Tarica said.
'It's going to depend on the attitude of your own dog. Some dogs are more athletic and more likely to run with you, but the ones to really avoid are dogs with pushed in faces like Pugs or Bulldogs.'
Other dogs that aren't ideal running companions? Large breeds with thick, furry coats such as Newfoundlands are more at risk for heat stroke than others, Tarica said.
Most important, owners should check with their veterinarian before starting their dogs on a jogging routine. Carry water not only for yourself but also for your dog while on a run, and offer it to him intermittently.
Bring a water bowl. It's important to hydrate your dog as you would yourself, Tarica says. If your dog seems tired or worn out, cut a run short.
'You kind of have to be aware of your dog specifically,' Tarica said. 'Note their panting. If they're resisting you and not wanting to run, that's a sign not to push them. If they keep taking heaving breaths or you notice their sides heaving in and out a lot while running -- stop.'
What works for you isn't necessarily best for your loyal dog.
Freelance writer Bethany Bump is a junior at Syracuse University this fall.
PULLOUT:
Humans can easily wipe away sweat midrun. A dog pants. This is how they sweat. And dog owners who are unaware of their pet's mechanism for releasing body heat can potentially hurt their dogs while trying to get them to exercise.
CAPTION(S):
Watch your dog for signs of distress when exercising in the summer. Excessive panting, bright-red gums, vomiting and weakness are all signs of heat stroke.
