Preventing Heat Stroke In Dogs: What You Need To Know

Dogs can get heatstroke, also known as hyperthermia, which is a life-threatening condition. It occurs when a dog's body temperature rises above a healthy range and they are unable to regulate their body heat. Unlike humans, dogs cannot cool down by sweating; they do so by panting, which is not always enough to reduce their body temperature. Heatstroke in dogs can be caused by various factors, including hot environments, lack of ventilation, and excessive exercise during hot temperatures. Certain breeds, such as those with thick fur, short noses, or medical conditions, are more prone to heatstroke. Recognizing the early signs of heatstroke, such as excessive panting, drooling, and reddened gums, is crucial to providing timely treatment and preventing serious complications.

Dogs are bad at dissipating body heat

Dogs are very bad at dissipating body heat. Unlike humans, dogs do not sweat to cool down. Instead, they have only a couple of ways to cool off: blood vessel expansion and panting. When dogs pant, they evaporate moisture from their tongues, nasal passages, and the lining of their lungs, and this cools them down as air passes over the moist tissue. They also cool off via vasodilation, where blood vessels, especially in the ears and face, expand, bringing overheated blood closer to the surface to cool down. The pads of their paws do contain sweat glands, but they do not produce enough sweat to make a difference.

Because dogs are so bad at dissipating body heat, they are very susceptible to heatstroke, which can be fatal. Heatstroke occurs when the dog's internal body temperature goes above 105°F. The degree of damage is determined by how high a body temperature is reached and how long the animal is exposed. Heatstroke can result in very serious complications, including swelling of the brain, kidney failure, intestinal bleeding, and abnormal blood clotting.

Certain breeds are more prone to heatstroke than others, including longhaired and brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs. Very young, old, overweight, and physically unfit dogs are also more susceptible. Dogs with thick fur or short noses, or those suffering from medical conditions, are also predisposed to heatstroke.

To prevent heatstroke, it is important to never leave your dog in a parked car, even for just a minute. On an 80-degree day, the temperature inside a parked car can reach 100 degrees in just 10 minutes. It is also important to make sure your dog has plenty of water and access to shade, and to avoid walking them during the hottest hours of the day. If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, bring them inside during peak temperature hours.

Heat stroke symptoms

Dogs are very susceptible to heatstroke, which can be life-threatening. Heatstroke occurs when a dog's internal body temperature rises above 105°F. As dogs cannot sweat to cool down, they rely on panting and vasodilation to regulate their body temperature. However, in hot and humid environments, these mechanisms may not be sufficient, leading to heatstroke.

The early signs of heatstroke include heavy panting, rapid breathing, excessive drooling, dry mucous membranes, bright red gums and tongue, and a higher heart rate. The affected dog may become hyperactive and have difficulty maintaining balance. As heatstroke progresses, the dog may show signs of shock, with pale mucous membranes, white or blue gums, a rapid heart rate, and a drop in blood pressure. Dehydration becomes more severe, and the dog may experience muscle tremors, lethargy, and uncontrollable urination or defecation. In advanced stages, the dog may collapse and even fall into a coma.

If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, immediate action is crucial. Move your dog to a cool and well-ventilated area, and use cool (not cold) water to help lower their body temperature. You can do this by sponging or spraying them with water, especially on their underside, ears, and paws. Do not immerse the dog in cold water, as it can cause shock. Using a fan can also help increase evaporative heat loss. Offer your dog small amounts of cool water to drink, but do not force them. It is important to monitor your dog's temperature and seek veterinary assistance as soon as possible, even if they seem to be recovering.

Some dogs are more prone to heatstroke than others. This includes dogs with thick fur, short noses, or underlying medical conditions. Overweight dogs, older dogs, and very young puppies are also more susceptible. Additionally, dogs that are excessively active or exercised in hot weather are at higher risk.

Heat stroke prevention

Dogs are very sensitive to heat and can quickly develop heat stroke, which can be fatal. This is because they are unable to cool down by sweating, and can only regulate their body temperature through panting and vasodilation.

To prevent heat stroke, there are several measures you can take:

Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car

Even with the windows cracked open, the temperature inside a parked car can rapidly become dangerous for a dog. On an 80-degree day, the temperature inside a car can reach 100 degrees in just 10 minutes, and 130 degrees in 30 minutes.

Provide Ample Water and Shade

When outdoors, always ensure your dog has access to a well-ventilated area with plenty of water and shade. Bring them indoors during peak temperature hours, and be sure to keep your house cool with air conditioning or fans.

Avoid Walking During Peak Temperature Hours

Take your dog for walks in the morning or evening to avoid the hottest hours of the day. Bring water with you on long walks and take breaks in shaded areas. Consider taking shorter walks and avoiding steep hills or other strenuous exercise.

Restrict Exercise on Warm Days

Dogs that are out of shape or overweight are more vulnerable to heat stroke. If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, restrict their exercise and ensure they have plenty of water and cool, shady areas to rest in.

Know Your Dog's Medical History

Older dogs, as well as those with conditions such as heart disease, obesity, or breathing problems, are more susceptible to heat stroke. Be extra cautious with these dogs and keep them cool.

Grooming

Ensure your dog is regularly groomed, especially if they have a thick or heavy coat.

Avoid Hot Pavements

Remember, if it's too hot to hold your hand on the pavement, it's too hot for your dog to walk on.

Heat stroke treatment

Heat stroke is a serious and sometimes fatal condition for dogs. If you suspect your dog is suffering from heat stroke, immediate action is required to lower their body temperature and prevent long-term complications or even death.

Firstly, remove your dog from the hot environment immediately. If you are outdoors, move your dog to a cool, well-ventilated area, preferably indoors. If you are travelling in a car, turn on the air conditioning and open the windows.

Next, start to cool your dog's body temperature. You can do this by applying cool or tepid water—not cold—to their body, especially the underside, using a sponge or by pouring small amounts over them. You can also place a soaked towel on their back, and use a fan to cool them. For small dogs or puppies, use lukewarm water instead of cool. Apply cool water to their ears and paws, as this will help reduce fever. Do not cover your dog with a wet towel, as this will make them hotter.

Allow your dog to drink as much cool water as they want, but do not force them to drink. You can also place them on a cold wet towel, or wrap an ice pack or frozen vegetables in a towel and place it between their thighs. If your dog is small, place them on top of the ice pack.

Take your dog's temperature with a rectal thermometer. If their temperature is above 105°F (40.5°C), continue to try to cool them down. If their temperature is below 105°F, take them to the vet immediately. Once their temperature reaches 103°F (39.4°C), stop cooling treatments and take them to the vet.

Call your veterinarian or the nearest emergency animal hospital and tell them you are on your way. Transport your dog in an air-conditioned car or with the windows open, and, if possible, bring someone with you to continue cooling treatments during the journey.

At the veterinary hospital, your dog will be treated with intravenous fluid therapy to replace fluids and minerals. The vet will also monitor your dog for secondary complications, such as kidney failure, abnormal clotting, and changes in blood pressure.

Dogs more prone to heat stroke

Dogs with thick fur, short noses, or pre-existing medical conditions are more prone to heat stroke. Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds such as pugs, boxers, and bulldogs are at greater risk due to their restricted airways. Dogs with muzzles are also at risk because their ability to pant is hindered.

Very young and older dogs are more susceptible to heat stroke, as are overweight and obese dogs. Dogs that are out of shape and exert a lot of energy in hot environments are vulnerable. Certain medical disorders, such as hypothyroidism, cardiac disease, and laryngeal paralysis, also contribute to heat stroke.

Additionally, environmental factors play a significant role. Dogs left in closed vehicles, confined without access to shade or water, or exposed to a hair dryer for extended periods are at a higher risk of heat stroke.

Frequently asked questions