Looking for a Gentle Summer Care Point?｜Dazhui (GV14)
Supervised by
![{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Veterinarian and Acupuncturist\nDirector, Omotesando Animal Care Salon FLORA\nYuki Nakagiri, DVM"}]}]}](http://shop.inzen-hinata.jp/cdn/shop/files/img_supervision_nakamura.png?v=1773065735&width=300)
Why the risk of heatstroke rises for dogs and cats in summer
Dogs and cats are covered in fur and cannot regulate their body temperature by sweating across their entire bodies as people do.
They also live closer to the ground than people, making them more susceptible to heat reflected from the pavement during walks.
Heatstroke can occur not only during daytime walks but also in hot, humid rooms or when a pet is left inside a vehicle, even for a short time.
Be mindful of temperature differences between indoors and outdoors, and carefully observe your pet's condition each day.
A safe environment is the foundation of heatstroke prevention
The most important steps in preventing heatstroke are providing an environment where your pet can escape the heat and offering water frequently.
Once these essentials are in place, you may also incorporate gentle massage into your daily bonding routine.
- Choose cooler times, such as early morning or after sunset, for walks and outings
- Monitor indoor temperature and humidity, and adjust air conditioning and ventilation appropriately
- Make sure fresh water is always available
- Never leave your pet in direct sunlight or inside a vehicle
- Provide an environment where your pet can freely move between warmer and cooler areas
Warning signs to watch for on hot days
- Heavy panting or changes in breathing
- Excessive drooling or changes in the color inside the mouth
- Low energy, weakness, or lethargy
If you suspect heatstroke, do not massage your pet. Move them to a cool place immediately.
Use towels dampened with room-temperature water and airflow to help cool the body while contacting a veterinary clinic promptly.
If your pet cannot drink, do not force water into their mouth.
The Dazhui acupoint for summer wellness care
This article introduces Dazhui, an acupoint sometimes used in traditional East Asian medicine as part of summer wellness care.
Dazhui is located around the junction of the neck and back. As a guide, look just below the prominent bone that appears when the head is lowered forward.
It is not a problem if you cannot identify the exact point.
Watch your pet's response and gently massage the surrounding area where they appear comfortable.
How Dazhui may support your pet
- Everyday care to help your pet stay comfortable during hot weather
- Relaxation care for summer
- Gently easing tension around the neck
- Supporting day-to-day health management during hot weather
A gentle massage method
- Make sure your dog or cat is calm and relaxed.
- Using the pad of your thumb, gently stimulate the area around Dazhui with slow circular motions.
- If using a spoon, choose one with smooth, rounded edges. Lay the rounded back of the spoon against the body and glide it gently without rubbing the skin.
Massage tips
- Use pressure that feels comfortable to your dog or cat.
- There is no need to press the exact acupoint; gently massaging the area where the neck meets the back is sufficient.
- Do not press firmly, and begin with a short session.
Important precautions
Do not massage your pet if there are wounds or inflammation on the skin, pain is suspected in the neck or back, your pet is unwell, or they dislike being touched.
If you notice heavy panting, weakness, unsteadiness, vomiting, diarrhea, or altered consciousness, prioritize cooling your pet and contacting a veterinary clinic rather than massage.