Heat Stroke: what you need to know this summer

HEATSTROKE

As we’re set to see hot and humid temperatures again this weekend and throughout next week, it’s important to be aware of and recognize the symptoms of heat stroke in your dog:

WHAT IS IT?

Heat stroke occurs when a dog loses its ability to regulate its body temperature. Dogs don’t sweat all over their bodies the way humans do. Canine body temperature is primarily regulated through respiration (i.e., panting). If a dog’s respiratory tract cannot evacuate heat quickly enough, heatstroke can occur.

A dog’s normal resting temperature is about 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Once a dog’s temperature rises above 105 degrees, physiological changes start to take place, and the dog begins to experience the effects of heatstroke. At 106 to 108 degrees, the dog begins to suffer irreversible damage to the kidneys, liver, gastrointestinal tract, heart and brain.

WHO GETS HEAT STROKE?

ANY breed can be affected, but it is more frequent in long-haired dogs, flat-faced dogs, and extremely active or working dogs during warm months.  It can occur at ANY age, but tends to affect the young and old the most since their bodies aren’t as conditioned.

SYMPTOMS

Excessive panting and drooling, reddened gums, rapid heart rate, vomiting, diarrhea, wobbly or uncoordinated gait, glazed eyes, and lethargy

Excessive Panting is the 1^st symptom!

HOW TO AVOID:

Prevention is easy with basic safety precautions!  Take caution in hot and humid conditions, by taking plenty of breaks in the shade, and offering water frequently.  Keep exercise to early in the morning or late at night.  Avoid asphalt, concrete or other heat-reflective surfaces which will amplify the heat on your dog AND possibly damage their paws.  And of course, make sure to never leave your dog in the car or in an area/enclosure that isn’t well-ventilated or without air conditioning. 

 Remember that working dogs tend to become so focused on their tasks that they don't realize when they need to rest and cool down - it's up to you to monitor your dog and make sure he gets the breaks he needs to stay healthy!  Consider wetting him down or using a cooling vest while he's active, and keep a close watch on him for the first signs of overheating.

WHAT IF YOU SUSPECT HEATSTROKE HAS OCCURRED?

-Immediately move your dog to a cooler environment. 

-Use cool or tepid water rather than really cold water, which can cause the blood vessels to constrict and actually slow the cooling process.  Running water is better than submerging your dog – focus on areas with high circulation like armpits, abdomen and inner thighs.

-Blowing air over your dog with a fan as you cool them with water can be helpful

-Offer small amounts of cool water to drink

-As soon as your dog is stable – GET TO YOUR NEAREST VETERINARIAN QUICKLY!  Dogs who suffer from heat stroke can develop delayed complications that are really serious, including death, if they are not properly monitored and cared for.

KEEP COOL AND SAFE OUT THERE, FRIENDS!