With the mid-summer heat waves reaching new extremes, the risk of heat stroke in dogs is on the rise. Heat stroke is defined as a body temperature exceeding 105.8F, and is due to an inability to effectively dissipate heat.
There are 3 main types of dog heat stroke: the first is what we think of as “classic” heat stroke, meaning that an animal is exposed to an excessively hot and humid environment.
The second type of heat stroke is called exertional heat stroke, which can occur due to excessive exercise, regardless of the ambient temperature.
Finally, heat stroke can occur due to secondary causes, such as uncontrolled seizures or tremors.
Is My Dog At Risk For Heat Stroke?
All dogs (and all animals, for that matter) are at risk of developing heat stroke depending on external factors, such as the heat index that day or being left in a hot car.
However, some dogs are at a higher risk of heat stroke than others, including:
Large breed dogs with thick hair coats such as Newfoundlands and Bernese Mountain Dogs
Obese dogs
Brachycephalic or “smush faced” breeds such as Frenchies and English Bulldogs
Dogs with pre-existing respiratory disease such as laryngeal paralysis, collapsing trachea, or upper airway abnormalities
What Are The Symptoms of Heat Stroke in Dogs?
Clinical signs of heat stroke in dogs include:
Collapse, labored breathing or excessive panting
Dull mentation
Vomiting or diarrhea (either of which may be bloody)
Signs of bleeding, such as bruising on the skin or gums
What Is The Outcome of Dog Heat Stroke and How is it Treated?
Heat stroke varies in severity and can affect multiple organ systems, causing damage to the gastrointestinal system, kidneys, heart and lungs, and brain. It also severely impacts the body’s hemostatic system, causing prolonged clotting times and leading to hemorrhage.
Dog heat stroke is treated with aggressive supportive care, including:
Fluid therapy
Plasma transfusions to control bleeding
Blood pressure support
Gastroprotectants
Sometimes antibiotics if there is bacterial translocation from the intestinal tract
Anti-seizure medications if seizures are noted
The prognosis of heat stroke is variable and depends on the severity. In some cases, it is unfortunately fatal, regardless of treatment.
What Should I Do if I Think My Dog Has Heat Stroke?
If you are worried that your dog is experiencing heat stroke, the best course of action is to hose your dog down with cool or tepid water and turn on the air conditioning in your car while on the way into a veterinary hospital.
Call the veterinarian’s office right away so they are prepared for your arrival.
Do not use alcohol to soak your dog; not only is it noxious to animals, but also poses a fire hazard if defibrillation is required.
How Do I Prevent My Dog from Getting Heat Stroke?
Heat stroke can be prevented by taking careful precautions not to expose dogs to extreme temperatures.
Don’t Leave Your Dog in a Hot Car
Never leave a dog unattended in a vehicle on a hot day. The temperature in your car can rise by 20 degrees within only 10 minutes, and continues to climb as time goes on, even if windows are open.
Take Walks Early in the Morning
It is recommended to walk dogs only early in the morning or late in the evening during the summertime to avoid the hottest part of the day, especially if they are an at-risk breed.
Have Plenty of Cold Water Easily Accessible
Make sure your dogs have plenty of water, and if they are out in the middle of the day, make sure they have somewhere they can swim and cool down.
Get Help For Your Dog’s Heat Stroke
At VEG, your pet’s health and safety are always our top priorities, which is why you can always call and speak directly to a veterinarian. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us any time at one of our many convenient VEG locations.
