Heatstroke in Dogs
As temperatures rise, so do the risks to our four-legged friends. Summer is a season of fun, but for dogs, it can be dangerously hot sometimes fatally so. Heatstroke, or hyperthermia, is a life threatening condition that strikes faster than many pet owners realise. As a canine expert, I'm here to give you the knowledge and tools to protect your pup this summer.
Why Heatstroke Happens
Dogs don't sweat like humans do. They primarily cool themselves by panting and through limited sweating from their paws. On hot days, especially when combined with humidity or physical activity, these cooling methods can fall short leading to a rapid increase in body temperature.
Certain dogs are at higher risk, as they have lower tolerance against heat. Brachycephalic breeds (like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers) due to their unique facial structure, their short muzzles and airways, hinder their ability to cool down their bodies effectively. Elderly or overweight dogs also face extra challenges to dissipate heat form their bodies due to increased fat insultation and tend to generate more heat than dissipating it. Underlying medical conditions such as weak heart and unhealthy lungs reducing ability to pant. Puppies are weaker and have poorer ability to acclimate. Thus, a short time in a hot car, a midday walk on a scorching sidewalk, or excessive play in the sun can lead to disaster. So, keep a close eye on your dogs.
Warning Signs of Canine Heatstroke
Recognizing the early signs can save your dog's life. Watch for excessive panting or drooling, bright red or pale gums, lethargy, confusion, or unsteadiness and body temperature over 104 oF (normal is 101 to 102.5 oF). In serious cases of heatstroke, it could be vomiting or diarrhoea (sometimes with blood), collapse or seizures. So, be wary and do not take it lightly.
Preventing Heatstroke: Simple Summer Rules
1. Never leave your dog in a parked car. Even with windows cracked, temperatures can skyrocket within minutes.
2. Adjust walk times. Stick to early morning or late evening walks when it's cooler.
3. Provide shade and fresh water. Whether at home or outside, make sure your dog has access to both.
4. Avoid hot pavement. If you can't hold your hand on the ground for 7 seconds, it's too hot for your dog's paws.
5. Limit exercise. Especially for flat-faced breeds or dogs with health conditions.
6. Use cooling aids. Cooling mats, vests, and kiddie pools can help keep your dog comfortable.
7. Do not dress your dogs up with non breathable clothes and cover its paws with shoes.
8. Use a proper muzzle that is not too restraining that prevents it from panting properly.
If your dog shows symptoms of heatstroke, act fast time is critical. Step-by-Step Home Care:
1. Move your dog to a shaded, cool area immediately.
2. Offer small sips of cool (not cold) water. Never force them to drink.
3. Cool their body gradually: Wet their body with cool water using a hose, wet towels, or a bath (do not use ice water it can cause shock). Focus on areas with major blood vessels, belly, paws, armpits, and groin.
4. Place a fan nearby to help evaporate the water and speed cooling.
5. Check their temperature with a rectal thermometer if possible. Aim to lower it to around 103oF, then stop actively cooling to prevent hypothermia.
Important: These are first aid measures. Even if your dog seems better, they must be seen by a veterinarian immediately. Internal damage can occur even after symptoms fade.
Final Thoughts
Heatstroke is preventable but it requires vigilance. The summer months should be full of tail wags and happy memories, not emergency vet visits. Know the risks, recognize the signs and act quickly if trouble arises. Keep your dog cool, safe, and hydrated and enjoy the sunny days together.
As temperatures rise, so do the risks to our four-legged friends. Summer is a season of fun, but for dogs, it can be dangerously hot sometimes fatally so. Heatstroke, or hyperthermia, is a life threatening condition that strikes faster than many pet owners realise. As a canine expert, I'm here to give you the knowledge and tools to protect your pup this summer.
Why Heatstroke Happens
Dogs don't sweat like humans do. They primarily cool themselves by panting and through limited sweating from their paws. On hot days, especially when combined with humidity or physical activity, these cooling methods can fall short leading to a rapid increase in body temperature.
Certain dogs are at higher risk, as they have lower tolerance against heat. Brachycephalic breeds (like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers) due to their unique facial structure, their short muzzles and airways, hinder their ability to cool down their bodies effectively. Elderly or overweight dogs also face extra challenges to dissipate heat form their bodies due to increased fat insultation and tend to generate more heat than dissipating it. Underlying medical conditions such as weak heart and unhealthy lungs reducing ability to pant. Puppies are weaker and have poorer ability to acclimate. Thus, a short time in a hot car, a midday walk on a scorching sidewalk, or excessive play in the sun can lead to disaster. So, keep a close eye on your dogs.
Warning Signs of Canine Heatstroke
Recognizing the early signs can save your dog's life. Watch for excessive panting or drooling, bright red or pale gums, lethargy, confusion, or unsteadiness and body temperature over 104 oF (normal is 101 to 102.5 oF). In serious cases of heatstroke, it could be vomiting or diarrhoea (sometimes with blood), collapse or seizures. So, be wary and do not take it lightly.
Preventing Heatstroke: Simple Summer Rules
1. Never leave your dog in a parked car. Even with windows cracked, temperatures can skyrocket within minutes.
2. Adjust walk times. Stick to early morning or late evening walks when it's cooler.
3. Provide shade and fresh water. Whether at home or outside, make sure your dog has access to both.
4. Avoid hot pavement. If you can't hold your hand on the ground for 7 seconds, it's too hot for your dog's paws.
5. Limit exercise. Especially for flat-faced breeds or dogs with health conditions.
6. Use cooling aids. Cooling mats, vests, and kiddie pools can help keep your dog comfortable.
7. Do not dress your dogs up with non breathable clothes and cover its paws with shoes.
8. Use a proper muzzle that is not too restraining that prevents it from panting properly.
Emergency Response:
What to Do if Your Dog Has HeatstrokeIf your dog shows symptoms of heatstroke, act fast time is critical. Step-by-Step Home Care:
1. Move your dog to a shaded, cool area immediately.
2. Offer small sips of cool (not cold) water. Never force them to drink.
3. Cool their body gradually: Wet their body with cool water using a hose, wet towels, or a bath (do not use ice water it can cause shock). Focus on areas with major blood vessels, belly, paws, armpits, and groin.
4. Place a fan nearby to help evaporate the water and speed cooling.
5. Check their temperature with a rectal thermometer if possible. Aim to lower it to around 103oF, then stop actively cooling to prevent hypothermia.
Important: These are first aid measures. Even if your dog seems better, they must be seen by a veterinarian immediately. Internal damage can occur even after symptoms fade.
Final Thoughts
Heatstroke is preventable but it requires vigilance. The summer months should be full of tail wags and happy memories, not emergency vet visits. Know the risks, recognize the signs and act quickly if trouble arises. Keep your dog cool, safe, and hydrated and enjoy the sunny days together.