Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that can affect dogs and is often caused by exposure to high temperatures and humidity. Dogs have a limited ability to cool themselves, as they do not sweat like humans do. Instead, they rely primarily on panting and blood vessel expansion to regulate their body temperature. This makes them susceptible to overheating, especially in hot and humid weather.
Heatstroke can occur when dogs are left in closed vehicles, confined to crates or exercise pens without adequate ventilation or water, or exercised in hot and humid conditions. The risk of heatstroke is higher for certain breeds, such as long-haired and brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs, as well as very young, old, overweight, or obese dogs.
The signs of heatstroke in dogs include heavy panting, rapid breathing, excessive drooling, dry mucous membranes, bright red gums and tongue, hot skin, increased heart rate, disorientation, vomiting, diarrhoea, and collapse. If left untreated, heatstroke can lead to multiple organ failure and death within an hour.
Immediate treatment is crucial for dogs suffering from heatstroke, and it involves removing them from the hot environment and gradually lowering their body temperature using cool water and fans. Veterinary care is essential, even if the dog appears to be recovering, as complications may arise later.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Normal body temperature range | 100.2–103.8 °F |
Hyperthermia body temperature | > 103.8 °F |
Heat stroke body temperature | > 105 °F |
Heat stroke fatality rate | 50% |
Time taken for heat stroke to be fatal | Within an hour, sometimes as little as 15 minutes |
Body temperature at which organs shut down | 109 °F |
Time taken for heat stroke symptoms to appear | A few minutes |
What You'll Learn
How to recognise the signs of heat stroke in dogs
Recognising the signs of heat stroke in dogs is important to prevent serious injury or even fatality. Dogs are unable to cool down efficiently as they do not sweat like humans do. Instead, they rely on panting and blood vessel expansion to regulate their body temperature.
The normal body temperature for a dog ranges from 100.2 to 103.8 degrees Fahrenheit. When a dog's body temperature reaches 105 degrees Fahrenheit, they are considered to be suffering from heat stroke.
- Heavy panting and rapid breathing: Dogs pant to cool down, but if they are panting excessively or faster than normal, they may be struggling to regulate their body temperature.
- Excessive drooling: Keep an eye out for excessive drool or drool that is thicker and stickier than usual.
- Dry mucous membranes: The mucous membranes in a dog's mouth may become dry due to dehydration.
- Abnormal gum colour: Gums may appear bright red, dark red, pale, purple, or blue. This can indicate dehydration or heat stroke.
- Hot skin: If your dog's skin feels hot to the touch, it could be a sign that their body temperature is elevated.
- Increased heart rate: You can check your dog's heart rate by placing your hand on their chest near their front elbow joint. If their pulse seems elevated, it could be a sign of heat stroke.
- Restlessness or agitation: Dogs may become restless or agitated as they try to cool down.
- Vomiting or diarrhoea: This may be a sign of heat stroke, especially if there is blood in the stool.
- Lethargy or collapse: As heat stroke progresses, dogs may become lethargic and collapse.
- Dizziness: Dogs may struggle to walk in a straight line or bump into furniture if they are dizzy or disoriented.
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to take immediate action to cool your dog down and seek veterinary attention if necessary.
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How to treat heat stroke in dogs
Heat stroke is a serious and life-threatening condition that requires immediate action. Here are some steps to help you treat heat stroke in dogs:
Recognising the Signs of Heat Stroke
Firstly, it is important to be able to recognise the signs of heat stroke in dogs, as early detection can help prevent permanent damage to their internal organs. Some early signs include:
- Excessive or loud panting
- A bright red tongue and pale gums
- Skin around the muzzle or neck that doesn't snap back when pinched
- Increased heart rate
As the condition worsens, signs may include:
- Increased difficulty breathing
- Gums that turn bright red, then blue or purple
- Weakness and/or fatigue
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Collapse, seizure or coma
Treating Heat Stroke
If you suspect your dog is suffering from heat stroke, take the following steps:
- Remove the dog from the heat and restrict their activity. Move them to a cool, shaded area, preferably with decent airflow. Carry them to this location if possible, rather than letting them walk.
- Allow the dog to drink cool water. Keep the quantity small at first. If they seem uninterested in water, cool or room temperature (low-fat, unsalted) beef or chicken broth is an acceptable substitute. Do not force water on them if they cannot drink freely.
- Cool the dog with water. Wet the dog with a stream of cool (not cold) water, being careful not to submerge them completely. Focus on their extremities such as their paws, head and tail. Place cool, wet towels between their back legs and in their armpits.
- Contact an emergency veterinarian immediately, even if your dog seems to be recovering. Internal damage is a possible side effect of heat stroke and undiagnosed complications can be fatal.
- Place rubbing alcohol on the pads of the dog's paws to help draw out some of the heat. Be sure to expose the feet to cool air and do not use too much alcohol, as it can be harmful if ingested.
- Do not cover or confine the dog, as this can trap in their body heat. Instead, place them on a cool tile floor with a fan blowing over them.
Preventing Heat Stroke
To prevent heat stroke in dogs:
- Be aware of conditions that may cause or exacerbate heat stroke, such as old age, obesity or a history of heart disease or seizures.
- Avoid leaving your dog in a car in warm weather, even if the temperature is mild.
- Groom your dog appropriately for the season—long-haired dogs may need to be shaved or trimmed in hot weather.
- Provide shade and water for your dog when they are outdoors in hot weather.
- Allow your dog to rest if they are working in the heat and ensure they have access to shade and cool water.
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How to prevent heat stroke in dogs
Heat stroke is a serious and life-threatening condition in dogs that requires immediate treatment. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat stroke and take preventive measures to keep your dog safe. Here are some detailed instructions on how to prevent heat stroke in dogs:
Avoid enclosed and poorly ventilated areas
Do not leave your dog unattended in parked cars, closed homes, or garages, especially during hot weather. Cars can heat up very quickly, even on mild days or with the windows down, and pose a significant risk of heat stroke for dogs.
Provide shade and water
Ensure your dog always has access to a cool, shaded area and plenty of drinking water. When outdoors, bring your dog inside or provide shade and ventilation. Use dog-safe sunscreen on light-haired and pink-skinned dogs to protect them from sunburn.
Restrict exercise during hot weather
Reschedule walks for early morning or evening to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Avoid overexerting your dog on hot or humid days, and provide rest breaks in the shade. Remember, hot pavements can burn your dog's paws, so try the "seven-second test": if it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws.
Keep your dog well-hydrated
Carry water with you on walks and offer it to your dog frequently. Adding ice to the water bowl can help keep it cool. Frozen treats like dog ice blocks can also help keep your dog hydrated and cool.
Cool your dog down
If your dog appears overheated, take steps to cool them down gradually. Use cool (not cold) water and avoid pouring water on or near your dog's head to prevent the risk of inhaling water, which could lead to drowning. A dip in cool water, such as a paddling pool or sprinkler, can be an excellent way for your dog to cool off.
Be cautious with grooming
While clipping your dog's coat can help with heat management, it's important not to shave it too short. Leave at least one inch of coat to provide insulation and protection from sunburn.
Monitor your dog's health
Some dogs are more susceptible to heat stroke, including very young or old dogs, overweight dogs, and those with certain medical conditions or on specific medications. If your dog is at higher risk, take extra precautions and closely monitor their health during hot weather.
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Why heat stroke occurs in dogs
Heat stroke in dogs, also known as hyperthermia, occurs when dogs are unable to cool down and their body temperature rises above 103°F (39.4°C). Unlike humans, dogs do not have an effective cooling mechanism and can only regulate their body temperature by panting or blood vessel expansion. Here are the reasons why heat stroke occurs in dogs:
- High Humidity: Even with lower temperatures, high humidity can contribute to heat stroke in dogs as they struggle to cool themselves down.
- Inadequate Play Breaks: Dogs need frequent breaks to cool off, especially during strenuous activities or when exposed to hot conditions.
- Lack of Water: Dogs can easily get dehydrated in warm weather if they don't have enough water to drink.
- Confinement in Cars: Leaving a dog in a car, even if it's not extremely hot outside, can quickly lead to heat stroke as the temperature inside the car can rise rapidly.
- Lack of Ventilation: On hot days, leaving a dog in a closed-up home or garage without proper ventilation or air conditioning can put them at risk of heat stroke.
- Breed and Physical Characteristics: Some dog breeds, such as Malamutes, Pugs, and Boxers, are more susceptible to heat stroke due to their short muzzles or thick coats. Overweight and obese dogs are also at higher risk.
- Age and Health: Puppies, older dogs, and those with heart or respiratory issues are more vulnerable to heat stroke.
- Medication and Medical Conditions: Dogs with pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart or lung disease, or those taking certain medications, may be more prone to heat stroke.
- Previous Heat Stroke: A dog that has previously experienced heat stroke is more likely to suffer from it again.
- Exercise and Activity: Engaging in strenuous activities or excessive exercise during hot weather can lead to heat stroke in dogs.
- Sun Exposure and Shade: Prolonged sun exposure without adequate shade can increase the risk of heat stroke, especially for dogs with light-coloured fur or pink skin.
- Acclimatization: Dogs can take up to 60 days to adjust to significant changes in temperature, so they may be at higher risk if suddenly exposed to hot weather.
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How long it takes for a dog to die of heat stroke
Heat stroke, or hyperthermia, in dogs can have fatal consequences. Dogs are unable to cool down efficiently as they do not sweat like humans do. Instead, they rely on panting, blood vessel expansion, and to a lesser extent, sweating through their paw pads.
The time it takes for a dog to die from heat stroke depends on several factors, including the dog's breed, age, weight, and any pre-existing medical conditions. However, death can occur within an hour, and there have been cases where dogs have passed away in as little as 15 minutes from the onset of heat stroke.
The degree of damage caused by heat stroke depends on how high the dog's body temperature rises and how long the dog is exposed to excessive heat. When a dog's body temperature reaches 105 degrees Fahrenheit, they are considered to be suffering from heat stroke. As the temperature continues to rise, the risk of organ dysfunction and failure increases. At 109 degrees Fahrenheit, a dog's heart, brain, liver, and kidneys can shut down.
The signs of heat stroke in dogs include heavy panting, rapid breathing, excessive drooling, dry mucous membranes, bright red gums and tongue, skin that is hot to the touch, increased heart rate, difficulty maintaining balance, lethargy, collapse, and seizures. As the condition progresses, dogs may experience vomiting, diarrhea, disorientation, stumbling, and multiple organ dysfunction.
It is important to act quickly if you suspect your dog is suffering from heat stroke. Move the dog to a cool area, begin cooling their body temperature with cool water, and seek veterinary attention immediately.
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Frequently asked questions
Heat stroke occurs when a dog's internal body temperature goes above 105°F. This is usually caused by high ambient temperatures that overcome a dog's ability to dissipate heat through panting and blood vessel expansion.
Early signs of heat stroke include heavy panting and rapid breathing, excessive drooling, dry mucous membranes, bright red gums and tongue, skin that’s hot to the touch, and a higher heart rate. As heat stroke progresses, dogs may experience signs of shock, such as pale mucous membranes, a drop in blood pressure, uncontrolled urination or defecation, and collapse.
Death from heat stroke can occur within an hour, and in some cases, as quickly as 15 minutes. The longer a dog is exposed to excessive heat, the more severe the condition becomes, and the risk of organ failure and death increases.