The summertime is the perfect time to get out and play with your pup. However, many dog owners underestimate the dangers of the summer heat. Pets can get hot quickly, and too much sun and heat could prove fatal. To prepare for summer safely, let's take a look at five warning signs of overheating in dogs and when it's time to see a vet.

1. Red Gums and Excessive Salivation

Overheating can present itself via symptoms in the mouth, which are important to look for if you're worried that your pup might have gotten too hot. Two of the common signs of overheating include gums that are bright red and excessive drooling. If your dog starts to show these concerning signs, it's time to visit your local emergency vet.

2. Lethargy and Issues With Coordination

It's not uncommon for your dog to get tired after vigorous exercise. However, there's a major difference between feeling tired and exhibiting symptoms that aren't common for tired pups. An overheated dog may be weak and drowsy to the point where they struggle to go about normal activities. When they do get up, you might notice that they can't stand up very well or are stumbling around. If they seem to be confused or don't respond to you like they normally do, these are also signs that should be taken seriously and treated promptly.

3. High Temperatures

Overheating will sometimes present exactly as it sounds. Despite being inside, does your dog have a very high temperature? If it's higher than 106 degrees Fahrenheit, it'll become impossible for them to cool themselves down. Take care to catch it before this point and rush them to the nearest vet. Quick intervention will make a major difference in the outcome of their situation.

4. Loss of Consciousness

Some signs of overheating are less subtle than others. Loss of consciousness is the most troubling. Some dogs that have overheated will collapse and refuse to wake up. Others may lie down in an attempt to cool down, and they become unresponsive. Loss of consciousness is something you can't ignore. Don't wait for them to wake up. Take them to the vet immediately.

5. Trouble Breathing

A dog will pant in order to cool down, but overheating can cause problems with breathing that soon become clear. They might pant to the point where they start gasping in order to try to get as much air as possible to cool down. In other cases, their breathing can become heavy and labored in response to overheating. Breathing problems should always be taken seriously, no matter whether it's a sign of overheating or not. Contact your vet immediately whenever breathing issues occur.

Dogs can overheat a lot faster than humans, and they're unable to communicate this discomfort until it's too late. Keep your eye on your dog to spot signs of overheating, make sure that they have plenty of water and shade, keep them inside when it's too hot, and contact your vet if there are any issues. Just remember to stay calm and not to panic as this could stress your beloved furry friend out.