So, What could Cause Excessive Panting?

 

Why Dogs Pant

Who doesn’t love playing with their dog? Watching those goofy fur-balls fetch, play hide and seek, or run through a sprinkler brings a smile to our faces. Not only that, but it also makes them feel loved and part of the pack. During playtime or anytime, you may notice them panting, but have you ever wondered why they do this or what causes it (other than the heat)? You might have heard a few reasons and some may sound stranger than others. Here are a few common reasons by PetMD that may explain why and what to look for if something doesn’t seem right.

Just a Few Reasons


  • Humans and dogs have different physiology. They have fur, our equivalent of a coat, and they can’t take it off like a coat after a summer run. So after a while, you’d start to sweat and look for something to drink -- the cooler, the better.
  • Most likely, you've heard this one before, dogs pant to cool down. Dogs can’t sweat through their skin like we do to cool off, once they get hot. Dogs do sweat through their paw pads, but it’s by panting that dogs circulate the necessary air through their bodies to cool down. 

Dangers to Look For


  • First off, all dogs are different. Some breeds react differently to heat than others. Always consider what is typical behavior for your specific dog. If something does not seem normal, your best bet is to take them to a vet as soon as possible. 
  • Panting can be a warning that your dog could be having a heatstroke. It’s important for you to move your dog to a cool spot or indoors immediately if you suspect that they are overheated. 
  • Another danger to look out for, if your pet is panting unusually, is poisoning or an allergic reaction. This something to consider, especially if there is no discernible reason for the excessive panting. When accompanied by other signs like lethargy and vomiting, panting can be an indicator that your dog has ingested something poisonous or is having a severe allergic reaction that is affecting their ability to breathe. Please seek medical attention right away!
  • If your pooch starts suddenly panting, it could be a symptom of illness. A sudden increase in heart rate and panting to catch their breath can be a warning that your dog has a heart problem. Pneumonia and Cushing’s syndrome (adrenal glands producing too much cortisol) can also be other illnesses that cause your dog to pant. 

Reliable Pet Taxi Service in Abilene

We want our pets to be safe and healthy. One way to do that is to take them to their regular vet appointments or to doggie daycare for some socialization with other dogs. But what if you can't take them? There is a reliable pet taxi service in Abilene that you can trust. Taxi My Pet offers pet rides in a safe and insured vehicle with plenty of room to accommodate all clients. Contact us at 325-386-7600 or visit www.taximypet.com to book a ride. 

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