DR. FRETORRY ROGERS AND HIS VET TEAM SAVE ENGLISH BULLDOG DYING FROM HEAT STROKE
It was a rescue that defies medical logic. And, it serves as a serious warning to all Texas pet owners. On a sun-scalding late July afternoon, veterinarian Dr. Fretorry Rogers rushed to the aid of an English Bulldog who’d- -ten minutes earlier- – collapsed from heat stroke after waiting two hours in line at an outdoor San Antonio vaccination clinic. “Hercules” the 90 pound beast was showing catastrophic symptoms. His eyes were locked in a death stare. He was barely breathing. Thick foam streamed from his limp jaws. His legs were stiff in rigor. As the dog’s shocked owner and a growing crowd moved in closer, Dr. Rogers took the dog’s temperature and blurted, “109 degrees.” An alarming six degrees higher than the 103 degree marker at which heat stroke typically sets in. It meant brain damage and organ failure had likely begun.
Dr. Rogers’ medical team raced to begin four life-saving moves. They plunged the dog’s 90-pound frame into a water-filled kiddie pool someone had fetched. They pressed an icepack against his chest. They trickled electrolytes down his throat. And, blotted rubbing alcohol onto his paw pads. It worked. A few minutes later, Hercules had cheated death.
Hercules earned his mythical name. In general, says Dr. Rogers, recovery from such extreme conditions doesn’t happen. Tragically, over the next few weeks, alone, many Texas dogs will die of heat stroke during the state’s “Red Alert Heat Stroke” months which last through September. The most common overheating related mistake that kills pets: leaving them in the car where, even with windows left open, the temperature can easily soar a deadly 30 degrees in 20 minutes. Dr. Rogers recommends dropping off your pet at a licensed pet daycare. San Antonio Magazine named Pawderosa Ranch Doggie Play and Stay the “Reader’s Choice Of 2015” because of the unparalled level of care and safety its trained staff provide as well as Pawderosa Ranch’s controlled climate and affordable rates at both San Antonio locations.
Dr. Rogers and his helpers won’t always be there to rescue you and your beloved bow wow. Below are critical life-saving facts you need to know:
HOW TO PREVENT DOG HEAT STROKE:
- Keep in air conditioned home or daycare if possible
- Make sure there is reachable and sufficient shade outdoors
- Place multiple water bowls filled and secured to avoid being knocked over
- Provide a “Kiddy Pool” full of water
- Check on your pet often
DOG HEAT STROKE SYMPTOMS:
- Excessive Panting
- Racing Heart Beat
- Worrisome Stare
- Excessive drooling
- Reddened gums and moist tissues of the body.
- Increased body temperature – above 103° Degrees.
- Production of only small amounts of urine or no urine.
- Sudden Inability/Refusal To Obey Commands
CALL YOUR VET:
If you suspect heat stroke, call your vet or emergency clinic and get your pet there as soon as possible.
Or if you want to feel safe and at ease that your dog is in well trained hands, take him over to Pawderosa for an air-conditioned day of play with trained supervisors on hand.
