Heat Stroke

  

Dogs do not sweat like humans do. They rely upon panting to exchange warm air with cooler air. However, if the weather is hot and humid, this process would be much less effective. Heatstroke can be a life threatening condition, and does require emergency treatment.  A dog's normal body temperature is 37.8-39.2°C, if the body temperature is higher than 40.5°C, it can be very dangerous. 

Heatstroke commonly occurs in hot summer weather when dogs are left in hot vehicles without adequate ventilation. However, heatstroke may also occur when an animal is left outdoors or is exercised in hot/humid conditions without adequate shade and water. Heatstroke is also more common in long haired or brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs. Other predisposing factors may be obesity and diseases affecting a pet's airway. 

Initially the pet appears distressed, pants excessively and becomes restless. Then, he/she may drool large amounts of saliva from the nose and/or mouth and may become unsteady on feet.  You may notice the gums starting to turn blue or bright red in colour due to poor oxygenation.

What to Do

• Move your pet to a shaded, well ventilated and cool environment. 
• If possible, determine rectal temperature and record it.
• Begin to cool the body by placing cool, wet towels over the back of the neck, in the armpits, and in the groin region.  You may also wet the ear flaps and paws with cool water.  Directing a fan on these wetted areas will help to speed evaporative cooling.  Transport to a veterinary hospital immediately.

What NOT to Do

• Do not use cold water or ice for cooling. 
• Do not overcool the pet.
• Do not attempt to force water into your pet's mouth, but you may have fresh cool water ready to offer should your pet be alert and show an interest in drinking.

It is very important to take your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible following an episode of heatstroke. Heatstroke can lead to laryngeal oedema which can worsen breathing problems. Other possible consequences of heatstroke include kidney failure, spontaneous bleeding, irregular heartbeat and seizures. These complications can occur within hours or days later.