Understanding Heatstroke in Dogs: Signs, Prevention and First Aid
It’s easier than you think for our furry friends to overheat in the warmer weather months. Unlike us, they can’t just shed layers or push the AC down while sipping on a cold lemonade to feel cooler. Dogs sweat through their paw pads while their primary way of cooling off is through panting; but when their body temperature becomes too high, cooling off can become difficult and even deadly. Heatstroke in dogs can have serious consequences if not treated right away, which is why pet owners should be very vigilant about observing any signs of overheating in their dogs.
What is heatstroke in dogs?
The term ‘heatstroke’ is commonly used for hyperthermia, which means elevated body temperature. This is a life-threatening condition where a dog’s body temperature rises dangerously high, typically above 104 degrees. In this situation, it becomes hard for the dog to cool themselves down and deal with the high temperatures. As their body temperature rises, it damages their tissues and organs, making them unwell.
What are the signs of heatstroke in dogs?
Excessive panting
Reddened gums
Elevated temperature
Vomiting and diarrhea
Disorientation
Weakness or collapse
Seizures
Excessive drooling
Hot skin
What are the causes of heatstroke?
High temperatures - excessive heat from the environment or strenuous exercise can cause the dog’s body temperature to rise.
Lack of shade and water - dogs left outdoors without access to shade and water are at a higher risk for heatstroke.
Leaving dogs in cars - cars can heat up quickly and dogs left inside can suffer heatstroke even in relatively mild temperatures. Remember, a car in the sun with no windows down can heat up a lot faster than you think.
Over-exercising or exercising on hot days - muscles can generate too much heat during exercise and adding in warmer temperatures can make your dog too hot to handle cooling down.
Is heatstroke the same as heat exhaustion and heat stress?
There are actually three different types of hyperthermia and while the terms are used interchangeably, there are differences between each condition:
Heat stress is associated with increased panting and thirst. Dogs are mentally aware and able to move around without any problems.
Heat exhaustion is a more severe form of heat stress and is associated with a significant increase in thirst, general weakness and heavy panting. Dogs are mentally aware but are too weak or tired to react and may not be able to move around or may collapse.
Heatstroke is the most severe type of hyperthermia and occurs when your pet’s internal temperature reaches 104 degrees. High temperatures and longer periods of heat exposure can lead to organ damage and failure.
How do I treat heatstroke in my dog?
If you believe your dog is suffering from heatstroke and is showing any of the above mentioned signs or symptoms, follow these steps and seek your vet immediately:
A safe and controlled reduction of body temperature is the priority.
Remove your dog from the hot environment and get them to a shaded, cool area
Pour cool (not cold) water over the dog, especially around the neck, chest and legs.
Cool cloths may be applied to the head, stomach, armpits and feet, however, these should be continually replaced or they will start to retain heat.
Encourage drinking with small amounts of fresh, cool water.
Ensure a continuous flow of air across the dog to help increase evaporative heat loss until treatment is received by your veterinarian.
Which dogs are more at risk for heatstroke?
While all dogs can develop heatstroke, there are characteristics in some dogs that can make them more susceptible to heat stroke, which can include:
Being overweight: Bigger dogs, overweight dogs and dogs with longer or thicker fur may retain body heat more easily and may find it more difficult to cool down.
Flat-faced: Flat-faced dogs, such as Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and Pugs, may find it harder to lose heat from panting because a shorter muzzle means a smaller surface area to cool them down.
More energetic: More energetic dogs may have a higher risk of heatstroke because they are physically more active and the heat generated by their muscles can contribute to a rise in body temperature.
Being older: Older dogs may be less active, but age-related health issues may make it harder for them to control their body temperature.
Health issues: This includes being dehydrated or having heart or breathing problems that are pre-existing.
How can I help prevent heatstroke in my dog?
Tip #1 - Never leave your dog unsupervised outside on hot days. Keep your pet indoors in air conditioning if you are away from home.
Tip #2 - While your dog is outside, make sure they have access to water, shade and shelter away from direct sunlight.
Tip #3 - Exercise your dog in the morning or later in the evening to avoid high temperatures and when the sun is at its highest point.
Tip #4 - Never leave your dog alone in a parked car. Even on sunny days that aren’t hot, heat can build quickly inside a closed car.
Being aware of the signs, causes, and prevention methods for heatstroke in dogs is crucial for every pet owner. Recognizing the symptoms early and administering immediate first aid can significantly improve your dog's outcome. Always prioritize your dog's comfort and safety during warmer months by providing ample shade, water, and avoiding strenuous activity during peak heat.
The summer can be brutal with its high temperatures and the sun blazing hot, but rest assured that Going Mutts Pet Services loves finding the best shaded walking routes for your furry friend! We take your furry friend's health as our number one priority in the summer, always making sure there is extra water, avoiding hot pavement for their paws and keeping to under the trees during our day walks. Contact us today to see how we can customize a summer dog walking experience for you!
Sources:
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/heat-stroke-in-dogs
https://animalemergencyservice.com.au/blog/heat-stroke-in-dogs/
