Wednesday, January 23, 2008

Travel Dangers In Jack Russell Dogs

By Richard Cussons
Traveling with Jack Russell dogs is fun, so fun as long as nothing went wrong. Unluckily, dangers can come along the way despite all the preparations and planning. Dogs not used of traveling can become scared of moving or unfamiliar objects and places. Chances are your Jack Russell dogs might escape through your open windows and doors. So always remember not to leave your car's windows and doors open. Consider traveling with your dog with a seatbelt or with a carrier. This will restrain him from unnecessary movements that are sometimes dangerous for both of you. If you decided to use a carrier, make sure it is large enough for your dog. He should be able to stand, lie or turn around it that carrier. When using seatbelt, position your dog in the middle of the backseat, not in the front seat especially if your car has front seat air bags.

Dogs left in the car can be affected with heatstroke. How much more during summer when the temperature is hotter? Heatstroke, also referred to as sunstroke is a condition wherein the body produces or absorbs more heat than it can dissipate. This usually happens when the body is exposed to too much heat.

A dog must maintain its normal body temperature which is 38.3 to 38.7 degrees Celsius (100.9 to 101.7). A dog with body temperature of 104 to 106 F experiences moderate canine heatstroke exhibits bright red tongue and gums, thick, sticky saliva and rapid panting. With the body temperature of above 106 F, a dog suffers severe canine heatstroke. A dog with canine heatstroke exhibits shock, weakness and/or dizziness, bloody nose as well as bloody vomiting and diarrhea. The dog's liver, kidney, lung, heart or brain can also be affected. Brain may swell and may lead to coma.

To treat heatstroke, take your dog to a cool place then apply ice packs or wet towels to the head, neck and chest. Let him drink cold water but make sure to give him limited amount of it. It is also advisable to let your dog lick ice cubes or even ice cream. During summer, most vets suggest to keep pets indoors to avoid the risk of heatstroke. But if you really do have to travel with your dog under the scourging heat of the sun remember these tips:

· Keep a bottle full of clean drinking water in handy. This will ensure that your dog gets the moisture his body needed. Don't forget to bring his bowl because some dogs won't drink in bottles.
· Never leave your dog unattended inside a parked car. Temperatures can rise and even if the windows are slightly open, your dog is still at risk of heatstroke.

Traveling with your Jack Russell dogs is enjoyable, so enjoyable as long as nothing bad comes along the way. Enjoy the travel! Take these tips...

About the author:
Richard Cussons is not just a writer but also a great lover of dogs. Discover more about Jack Russell Terriers at this site dedicated to Jack Russell dogs.

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

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