01/10/2023
🌞🐶☀️ It's going to be a warm day tomorrow with temperatures reaching over 30°C! ☀️🌡️
Let's talk about something crucial - Heat Stroke in our furry friends! 🐕🔥
Unlike humans, dogs regulate their temperature primarily through panting, with minimal help from sweat glands in their paw pads and noses. When they can't cool down this way, hyperthermia sets in, raising the core temperature above the normal range of 39.0°C.
SIGNS OF HEATSTROKE IN DOGS
❗ Early signs: High body temperature, restlessness, excessive panting, drooling, and gum color changes.
❗❗ Signs that condition is worsening: Vomiting or diarrhea (possibly with blood), increased heart rate, lethargy, dizziness, confusion, muscle tremors, seizures, and unconsciousness.
WHY HEAT STROKE OCCURS
Multiple factors contribute to heat stroke, mainly related to environmental conditions, but breed and pre-existing health issues can heighten risk. Causes include:
🌡️ High temperatures/humidity
🌀 Poor ventilation
☀️ Lack of shade or water
🏃 Excessive exercise
🌆 Pets unaccustomed to heat
🚗 Pets in closed homes/garages without air conditioning
🚙 Pets left in cars, where temperatures can rise rapidly.
CONSEQUENCES OF HEAT STROKE
Heat stroke can be fatal within an hour, especially for predisposed dogs. Early treatment is crucial, as permanent organ damage can result.
WHAT TO DO?
Veterinary care is essential for heat stroke cases. If you suspect your dog is experiencing heat stroke, take them to the closest veterinary hospital without delay. Veterinary treatment for heatstroke usually includes:
🌬️ Active cooling for high body temperature
💧 Intravenous fluids to treat dehydration and shock
💨 Oxygen therapy
💤 Anaesthesia and intubation for breathing difficulties
💊 Medication to protect the internal organs and prevent sepsis
💊 Pain relief
💓 Cardiac medications
🩸 Blood tests to assess organ function, level of dehydration, and clotting factors
🩸 Blood or plasma transfusion (if clotting problems are detected)
🏥 Ongoing monitoring and intensive care
