Spring has finally sprung and summer isn’t far behind. When the weather gets warmer I start to get concerned about heat stroke, particularly in our canine friends, though cats can be affected, too. Dogs left in hot cars or tied out in the sun are at risk for this deadly condition. So what is heat stroke, how do you prevent it, and what do you do if you suspect your dog may be a victim?

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. The term describes a condition of extreme elevated body temperature, sometimes 106 degrees or more. This severely high body temperature causes damage to cells and blood vessels, brain damage, shock, and eventual death. Dogs that are suffering can present in many different ways, but there are a few common signs to look out for. Aggressive, relentless panting is one common sign. Dogs with heat stroke often pant regardless of distractions such as speaking their name or offering a dog treat. Unwillingness to accept water when offered is another common symptom. Many heat stroke victims appear drunk and may stagger or be unwilling or unable to stand or walk. In severe cases, dogs may seizure repeatedly.

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It’s a fact of contemporary life that we are busy people with less free time to devote to our own fitness, and the fitness of our pets. Whether we’re time-crunched or simply unable to get out and exercise regularly, our dogs still have the same need for physical activity. Many entrepreneurial dog lovers have noticed this gap between the level of exercise dogs need and the level their caring owners are actually able to provide. Thus, a variety of doggie fitness centers have popped up across the country.

Some of these businesses are more energetic versions of the traditional dog walking services. Instead of a stroll, your dog is walked or run by an endurance athlete. This allows the owner to drop off his pooch, do errands, then pick up his happy, well-exercised pet an hour or so later.

Other businesses are a fitness-focused version of pet sitting or doggie day care. The thought behind these facilities is, rather than leave your dog at home to do nothing while you’re at work, bring your dog to a facility that will provide physical body conditioning and play – not to mention loads of companionship throughout the day. These facilities generally provide a personal fitness trainer to monitor your dog’s condition and progress.

Doggie aquatic centers have also become popular. For dogs that love to play in the water, swimming is an excellent exercise, especially for dogs that may have health conditions that make running difficult. A professional trainer will teach your dog lap swimming or other water exercise. Most will also offer dog swimming just for the fun of it. Some facilities even allow owners to swim with their pets. Since most dogs don’t have access to a good “swimming hole” year round, indoor doggie aquatic centers are a great place to give your dog a regular plunge.

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This is Gunny, an 18 month old Boxer who was found by a motorist on the side of the road Wednesday near Harleton, TX. Someone tied Gunny to a car and dragged him, injuring severely, the rope was still around his neck. Authorities worry because he’s not the first dog found with these injuries and they fear he may not be the last.

“What has this animal done to deserve to be treated that way,” said Tyler animal rescue worker Denise Wilson. When the Boxer, named Gunny, was brought in to Allred Veterinary Clinic in Marshall, Wednesday workers could hardly believe it.

“My findings did reveal this dog had been dragged behind a car, which is a crime, with the injuries consistent with the feet being injured by trying to stop itself and then eventually dragging on the ground,” said Marshall Animal Control Officer Eva Sepulvado. Gunny has terrible wounds to his feet and flanks, but amazingly he survived.

“He has an exposed bone, which will most likely have to be amputated in this coming week,” said Veterinary Technician Mandi Little.

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