Summer is a wonderful time to be outside with your dog — but the heat can be deadly if you are not careful. Heatstroke is one of the most serious emergencies a dog owner can face, and knowing the signs could save your dog's life.
Why Are Dogs at Risk for Heatstroke?
Unlike humans, dogs do not sweat efficiently. They rely mostly on panting to cool themselves down, which is far less effective — especially in hot and humid conditions. This means dogs can overheat much faster than we expect.
A dog with moderate heatstroke — body temperature between 104°F and 106°F — can recover within an hour with prompt first aid and veterinary care. Severe heatstroke — body temperature over 106°F — can be deadly and requires immediate veterinary attention. Normal body temperature for a dog is 100°F to 102.5°F.
Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs
Watch for these warning signs, especially on hot days:
• Depression or confusion
• Weakness and inability to stand
• Vomiting — sometimes with blood
If you notice any of these signs act immediately. Every minute counts.
What to Do if Your Dog Has Heatstroke
1. Remove your dog from the hot area immediately
2. Wet your dog thoroughly with cool water — not ice cold water. For very small dogs use lukewarm water. Using very cold water can be counterproductive and cause other life-threatening conditions.
3. Increase air movement around your dog with a fan
4. Check your dog's rectal temperature every 5 minutes
5. Once the temperature reaches 103°F stop the cooling measures and dry your dog thoroughly
6. Cover your dog so they do not continue to lose heat
7. Allow your dog to drink water freely if they can do so on their own — never force water
8. Get to your veterinarian immediately even if your dog appears to be recovering
Your veterinarian will monitor and lower your dog's body temperature safely and check for complications including dehydration, shock, respiratory distress, kidney failure and heart abnormalities. IV fluids and oxygen may be administered. Blood tests will be taken to monitor clotting, since clotting problems are a common complication of heatstroke.
How to Prevent Heatstroke
Prevention is always better than treatment. Follow these guidelines to keep your dog safe:
• Never leave your dog in a parked car — even in the shade or for just a few minutes. Car temperatures can reach 140°F very quickly.
• Always provide access to fresh water
• Make sure outdoor dogs have access to shade at all times
• On hot days restrict exercise — avoid jogging or intense activity with your dog
• Avoid hot pavement, concrete and beach sand where heat is reflected and there is no shade
• Keep dogs with heart disease, obesity, older age or breathing problems especially cool
• Never muzzle your dog in hot weather — they need to pant to cool down
• Wet your dog down with cool water or allow them to swim to help maintain a safe temperature
Some dogs are more vulnerable to heatstroke than others:
• Flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs and Boston Terriers
• Dogs with heart or lung conditions
• Dogs not used to hot weather
If your dog falls into any of these categories take extra precautions on hot days.
Listen to the Full Episode
Hear directly from Dr. Laura Brown Bark & Wag 15 Minute Vet Talk episode below!
https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/23272079
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