During the hot Hawaii summer, it’s crucial to keep yourself well hydrated and cool, especially during the harshest parts of the day. The vets at Mililani Town Center Pet Clinic on Oahu know it’s also essential to pay attention to your dog. Canines can easily overheat during the summertime, but the signs they are too hot may not always be obvious. To help you keep your pooch healthy, they list three signs of heat exhaustion in dogs below.

A Vet’s Guide to Canine Heat Exhaustion

1. Excessive Panting

While it’s perfectly normal for your dog to pant when they’re hot, pay attention to any panting that seems excessive. As a general rule, vets identify a fully open mouth and a tongue that hangs to the side as “excessive” panting. If you spot this behavior, offer your pup some water and encourage them to move to a cooler spot right away.

2. Constant Lying Down

Does your pup keep trying to lay down while you’re walking them or trying to pet them? Like humans, dogs get tired from the heat and may start trying to lay down and relax so their body cools down. If your canine tries to rest on the sidewalk, take them home right away. If they collapse, which is a more extreme sign of heat exhaustion, cool them off with water immediately.

3. Lack of Responsiveness

This is a subtle sign, but professionals say it’s one you should be aware of. If your normally alert dog is suddenly slower to respond to your commands than usual, take note. They may be exhibiting early signs of heat exhaustion, which you can prevent by placing them in a shady spot and giving them extra water.

If your dog does experience heat exhaustion, you can always contact Mililani Town Center Pet Clinic for assistance. Their expert vets and support staff will be happy to take care of your pup should you need to bring them in. They offer a wide variety of services, from wellness checks to vaccinations. For an appointment, call them today at (808) 625-6744. To learn more, visit them online.