Heatstroke in your pet!
By Dr. Maria Krenz, DVM – ZimmVet-763-856-4848
When a dog’s internal body temperature is above 105 degrees F, the dog may be suffering from heatstroke. Dogs have only a couple of ways to cool off—blood vessel expansion and panting. When dogs pant, they evaporate moisture from their tongues, nasal passages, and the lining of their lungs, and this cools them down as air passes over the moist tissue. They also cool off via vasodilation. Blood vessels, especially in the ears and face, expand, bringing overheated blood closer to the surface to cool down.
Signs of Heat Stroke
Heat Stroke in pets! Heatstroke in dogs is life-threatening and can also result in very serious complications. Recognizing early signs of heatstroke may help you remedy the condition before things get too serious. Early signs of heatstroke include:
- Heavy Panting
- Rapid Breathing
- Excessive Drooling
- Dry Mucous Membranes
- Bright red gums and tongue
- Skin that is hot to the touch
- High Heart Rate
Affected dogs become hyperactive and may have difficulty maintaining balance. As exposure to excessive heat goes on, the dog’s condition worsens and includes signs of shock, pale mucous membranes with white or blue gums, a very rapid heart rate, and a drop in blood pressure. The dog hyperventilates, and dehydration becomes more severe. Pupils dilate, the pulse becomes more irregular, and the dog has muscle tremors. They may become lethargic and unwilling to move, urinate or defecate uncontrollably, collapse, and become comatose.
Why Does Heat Stroke Occur?
Heatstroke generally occurs during the hottest part of the year, especially when it is humid. Contributing factors include: breed, age, physical fitness, if a pet is overweight, medical disorders and being in closed conditions such as a car.
How to Treat Heatstroke
Heatstroke therapy involves immediately trying to lower the dog’s body temperature. If you notice signs of heatstroke in your dog, it’s critical to stop any activity and help your dog cool down by:
- Walking or carrying the dog to a well-ventilated, cool area.
- Spraying or sponging the dog with cool (not cold) or tepid water, especially on the underside. Do not immerse the animal in cold water.
- Using a fan to blow cool air on them.
If at home cooling does not bring your dog’s body temperature below 103 degrees bring your dog to your veterinarian or local pet emergency clinic. Severely affected dogs require fluids, medication, support, and oxygen. Complications may not occur immediately, so it’s important to let your veterinarian determine the type of follow-up treatment required.
Conclusion
Heatstroke in Pets! Immediate action and correct treatment are so important because they can mean the difference between a swift and complete recovery and long-term complications.
Always provide plenty of cool fresh water, shade, and frequent rest periods when it’s hot. And never leave your dog in the car.
Please visit the AAHA website at https://www.aaha.org/your-pet/pet-owner-education/ask-aaha/how-can-i-prevent-heatstroke-in-my-pet/ for more information. More information on heatstroke and summer fun with your pet please visit our other blog post https://www.zimmvet.com/blog/wp-admin/post.php?post=885&action=edit.
