07/12/2024
Hot summer days are here! This time of year we get callouts for dogs experiencing signs of heat stroke on the trail. Know the signs and treatment of heat stroke, as well as how to prevent it in the first place, to keep your furry friend safe.
Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that happens when the body is overheated and unable to effectively dissipate the heat. It can also happen very quickly. Knowing how to recognize the signs of heat stroke in your dog as well as how to prevent it are key for your dogās safety.
Heat Stroke Predisposing Factors:
* High outside temperature - can occur at temperatures as low as 70Ā°
* High humidity
* Limited shade/water
* Lack of ventilation (think cars)
* Dehydration
* Obesity
* Long coats
* Age factors
* Poor conditioning/overexertion
* Certain breeds are more susceptible (brachycephalic āflat-nosedā breeds such as pug, boxer, pekingese; and winter dog breeds)
Heat Stroke Signs:
* Excessive panting
* Excessive drooling
* Reddened gums/tongue
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Staggering, tremors, collapse, seizures
* Dull mentation
* Respiratory distress
* Core body temperature over 105Ā°
* Rapid heart rate
Heat Stroke Treatment:
* Early recognition is important.
* If your dog looks like it may be getting overheated, stop, find shade, and offer water.
* Wet down with cool or room temperature water (NOT COLD-this can cause peripheral vessels to constrict) to hairless areas such as the belly, groin, armpits, and bottom of paw pads.
* If available, alcohol wipes can be applied to these areas for a cooling effect.
* Fan with wet towels or clothing
* Stop cooling when body temperature hits 103Ā° to prevent rebound hypothermia
* Take your dog to the vet immediately for monitoring and testing for any signs of organ damage.
Heat Stroke Prevention:
* Do not leave dogs in vehicles on hot days. Just donāt!
* Be careful of overexertion
* Beware taking brachycephalic (pug, boxer, pekinese) or winter dog breeds hiking, especially in warm weather or in warmer periods of the day
* Provide water frequently to maintain hydration
* Restrict activity on warm days
* Lots of rest time in shaded areas
* Monitor temperature closely
Heat Stroke Prognosis:
Unfortunately, the prognosis for heat stroke is guarded with a survival rate as low as 50%. One episode of heat stroke may also predispose a dog to others due to damage to the temperature regulation center of the brain.
Prevent! Prevent! Prevent!
Consider leaving your dog home on warm days. We know it's hard to say no to their eager fuzzy faces, but do it to keep them safe.
Always monitor your dogās condition on the trail. This is important in all weather seasons.
WASART is an all volunteer organization. We are available at no cost for animals when they need help. For more information about us or to make a donation, visit www.wasart.org.