Canine Heatstroke: Insights from Natasha Feduik, LVT, Reviewed by Brittany Kleszynski, DVM, Published on April 8, 2020, and Reviewed on April 30, 2024. Sharing options on Facebook, Twitter, Email, and Print are available.
The warmer seasons welcome increased outdoor activities with our furry companions, yet it's crucial to be aware of the imminent risk of heat stroke in dogs. This potentially life-threatening condition occurs due to a dog's unique temperature regulation system.
Unlike humans, dogs primarily regulate their body temperature through panting, and only a few sweat glands (located mostly on their paw pads) offer minimal assistance. This means panting is their primary method of releasing heat, and when it's insufficient, heat exhaustion or heat stroke can occur. Particularly at risk are older or overweight dogs, brachycephalic breeds such as Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers, dogs with underlying medical conditions, and those with thick coats or those engaging in strenuous physical activities.
Heat stroke in dogs is caused by elevated body temperatures, which result primarily from high environmental temperatures, extreme exercise, or being left in hot cars, overheated rooms, or outdoors without shade and cool water. When the surrounding environment heats up, and a dog's body temperature rises, they release excess heat via panting. However, if panting is unable to bring down their temperature, heat exhaustion and, ultimately, heat stroke can occur when their internal body temperature surpasses 103 degrees.
The warning signs of heat stroke in dogs are usually evident, and prompt action is crucial when witnessed. Symptoms include excessive panting, drooling, reddened gums, vomiting, diarrhea, mental dullness, dizziness or lack of coordination, loss of consciousness, and collapse.
In such situations, quick response is necessary to cool your dog down and seek medical attention. Start by moving your dog to a cooler area, such as indoors or into the shade. If possible, take your dog's temperature with a thermometer intended for humans and gently insert it into your dog's anus for an accurate reading. If the temperature is between 103-106 degrees, your dog is in heat exhaustion. Above 106 degrees, heat stroke is imminent.
Immediately begin cooling your dog by soaking towels or washcloths in cool water and wetting your dog down. Apply the cool wet cloths to the neck, armpits, and between your dog's hind legs. Gently wet the ears and paw pads with cool water. Avoid placing your dog in an ice bath as a dog's temperature must be brought down gradually. Offer cool, fresh water to drink if your dog is conscious enough to do so.
Upon noticing the early signs of overheating, immediate action is crucial to start cooling your dog down and get help. Contact your veterinarian right away if your dog's temperature is above 103 degrees. If your dog has collapsed or lost consciousness, rush your dog to an emergency veterinarian immediately.
Heat stroke can have serious effects on the body, such as kidney failure, neurological symptoms, abnormal blood clotting, changes in blood pressure, and electrolyte abnormalities. In extreme cases, it may lead to organ shutdown, cardiac arrest, and death. Your veterinarian may recommend running blood work to assess any internal damage and determine necessary supportive care.
Prompt action and adequate prevention measures are essential to keep your dog safe from heat stroke. By following some basic safety practices, you can ensure your dog remains comfortable and protected during warmer weather:
- Limit outdoor exercise or activity on excessively hot or humid days.
- Provide shade and plenty of water when your dog is outdoors.
- Engage your dog in indoor activities during hot weather.
- Implement cooling measures for an overheating dog, such as applying water-soaked towels and using a fan for cooling.
- Never leave your dog in a parked car, even in the shade with the windows cracked, as the inside can quickly become dangerous.
- Use evaporative coolers in well-ventilated areas, such as the yard or garage, to help keep your dog cool during outdoor playtime.
In the realm of pet care and health-and-wellness, understanding the unique temperature regulation system of our furry companions is crucial. Dogs, primarily panting to cool down, are prone to heat stroke due to their limited sweat glands. This has implications for their mental-health, as a dog's behavior can be affected by extreme temperatures. To maintain a healthy lifestyle for your pet during warmer seasons, implement safety measures such as limiting outdoor activities during hot days, providing shade and ample water, engaging in indoor activities, and using cooling measures when necessary.
