Heatstroke is a serious and life-threatening emergency, but it’s also completely preventable. Knowing the signs and what to do can save your dog’s life.
What is Heatstroke?
Heatstroke happens when a dog’s internal body temperature rises to dangerous levels due to environmental conditions. A dog’s normal body temperature ranges from 38.1∘C to 39.2∘C (100.5∘F to 102.5∘F).
Body temperatures above 41∘C (106∘F), without a prior illness, are typically caused by exposure to excessive environmental heat. Heatstroke becomes life-threatening when a dog’s temperature reaches 41.2∘C to 42.7∘C (107∘F to 109∘F), as this can lead to multiple organ failure and death.
How Does Heatstroke Occur?
Several situations can predispose a dog to heatstroke. Be mindful of these common risk factors:
- Leaving dogs in cars without adequate ventilation.
- Leaving dogs in a yard without access to shade or water on a hot day.
- Confining dogs in a warm or humid environment with poor ventilation.
- Excessive or overly strenuous exercise during hot temperatures.
Certain dogs are also at a higher risk:
- Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Pugs, Pekingese, and Boston Terriers can develop heatstroke even in moderately warm conditions.
- Overweight, very young, or senior dogs.
- Pets with thick fur coats.
- Dogs with pre-existing airway, lung, or heart issues.
- Dogs experiencing seizures or severe muscle spasms.
💡Did You Know? A study from Stanford University found that the temperature inside a car can increase by an average of 22∘C (40∘F) within just one hour, regardless of the outside temperature.
Why Are Dogs So Susceptible?
Dogs can’t cool down as efficiently as humans. While we sweat to dissipate heat, dogs only have a small number of sweat glands on their footpads. Their primary method of cooling down is panting, which allows heat to escape through evaporation from their tongue and respiratory tract.
Flat-faced breeds, with their narrowed nostrils and compact airways, struggle to draw in enough air to cool themselves effectively, making them particularly vulnerable.
What Are the Signs of Heatstroke?
Early recognition is critical. Look for these initial signs:
- Heavy panting that may become distressed or noisy
- Restlessness, agitation, or pacing
- Excessive drooling
- Bright red gums and tongue
- Increased heart rate
- Vomiting
- Bloody diarrhea
As heatstroke worsens, clinical signs can progress to:
- Lethargy and confusion
- Weakness or collapse
- Seizures
My Dog Has Heatstroke! What Do I Do?
If you suspect your dog has heatstroke, take immediate action. This is a medical emergency.
- Remove your dog from the hot environment immediately and place them in a cool, well-ventilated area.
- Offer cool water, but do not force them to drink.
- Wet your dog with COOL water, not cold or ice water. Place them in front of a fan or the car’s air conditioner while transporting them to the nearest veterinary hospital.
- Avoid ice packs placed directly on the skin, as this can constrict blood vessels and slow down the cooling process.
- Do not cover the dog with wet towels, as this can trap heat and prevent evaporative cooling.
Veterinary Treatment for Heatstroke
Heatstroke requires intensive critical care at a veterinary hospital. Treatment often includes:
- Intravenous (IV) fluids to combat dehydration and support organ function
- Oxygen therapy
- Mild sedation to reduce anxiety and stress
- In severe cases, treatments may include antimicrobials, gastroprotectants, blood transfusions, or anti-seizure medications.
What is the Prognosis?
The prognosis for a dog with heatstroke depends on how high their body temperature became, the duration of the heat exposure, and any underlying medical conditions. Early recognition and prompt, intensive veterinary care significantly increase the chances of survival.
Prevention is Key! 🔑
While heatstroke is a serious medical emergency, the good news is that it is COMPLETELY PREVENTABLE!
- Never leave your dog in a car unattended, even for a minute.
- Avoid strenuous exercise in hot and humid weather. Opt for walks in the early morning or late evening.
Always ensure your dog has access to fresh water and shade when outside.