Heat Stroke in Dogs

Hyperthermia is the term used to describe an abnormal elevation in body temperature. This can happen due to inflammation in the body or a hot environment. Summer is approaching and it is important to watch out for Hyperthermia in your dog. Hyperthermia can cause heat stroke or heat exhaustion in your dog.

Heat stroke in your dog requires immediate medical attention. Once your dog exhibits signs of heat stroke, time is of the essence; serious damage to death can occur quickly.

Unlike humans, dogs do not sweat through their skin so are unable to release excessive body heat in that fashion; rather they pant and sweat through their footpads and nose. When your dog is unable to release excessive body heat, the internal body temperature continues to rise. Once a dog’s body temperature hits 106 degrees, damage begins. The dog’s cellular system and organs begin to break down causing irreversible damage if not attended to immediately.

Signs your dog may be suffering from a Heat Stroke are:

• Increased rectal temperature (over 104° requires action, over 106° is a dire emergency)
• Vigorous panting
• Dark red gums
• Tacky or dry mucus membranes (specifically the gums)
• Lying down and unwilling (or unable) to get up
• Collapse and/or loss of consciousness
• Thick saliva
• Dizziness or disorientation

If you suspect your dog may be suffering from heat stroke take immediate action. Remove your dog from the heat source and sun immediately. Place cool wet rags on your dog making sure to place them on footpads and head first. Never submerge your dog in an ice bath, place ice on your dog or use to cold of water. This causes blood vessel constriction resulting in the internal body temperatures rising even more.

When you get the body temperature of your dog down to 103 degrees, stop cooling your dog. Offer your dog water but do not force your dog to drink. Follow up with a visit to the vet. Even though your dog may appear to spring back to normal, internal damage may have been cause by the heat stroke.

Prevent heat stroke in your dog by:

• Never leaving your dog in your vehicle on warm days even if windows are open. Your car acts like an oven, so even if the temperatures outside do not appear hot, the temperature inside your car can be deadly for your dog.
• If it is above 80 degrees outside, keep exercise on low key. Never exercise your dog vigorously when it is hot outside.
• Keep your dog in a steady supply of fresh cool water at all times.
• Older dogs, obese dogs, and short-nosed dogs are more sensitive to heat. Take extra precautions with them.
• Make sure if your dog is house outside it has adequate shelter to get out of the heat and always has a fresh supply of cool water.

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