Recognizing Heat Stroke In Dogs: Signs And Symptoms

what does heat stroke in dogs look like

Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition in dogs that requires immediate treatment. It occurs when a dog's internal body temperature rises above a healthy range, and they are unable to regulate their body heat through panting. This can happen when dogs are exposed to excessive heat or external environmental heat, such as being left in a car with inadequate ventilation, or outside without access to shade or water. The early signs of heat stroke include heavy panting, rapid breathing, excessive drooling, dry mucous membranes, bright red gums, and skin that is hot to the touch. As the condition progresses, dogs may experience seizures, organ failure, and even death. Therefore, it is crucial for dog owners to be able to recognise the signs of heat stroke and take immediate action to cool their dog down and seek veterinary care.

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Warning signs: heavy panting, rapid breathing, drooling, gum discolouration, lethargy

Heavy panting, rapid breathing, drooling, gum discolouration, and lethargy are all warning signs of heat stroke in dogs.

Dogs have a limited ability to regulate their body temperature. Unlike humans, who have sweat glands all over their bodies, dogs only have sweat glands on their paw pads and around their noses. As a result, dogs rely primarily on panting to cool themselves down. When panting is insufficient, their body temperature rises, and they can develop heat stroke, which can become fatal if not treated immediately.

Heavy panting is often the most telling sign of heat stroke in dogs. Dogs with flat faces, such as pugs, boxers, and bulldogs, are at a greater risk of heat stroke because they cannot pant as efficiently. If your dog is panting constantly or faster than normal, they may be overheated.

Another warning sign is rapid breathing or difficulty breathing. As their body temperature rises, dogs may exhibit signs of respiratory distress, struggling to breathe normally.

Excessive drooling is also a common symptom of heat stroke in dogs. Keep an eye out for large amounts of drool or drool that appears thicker and stickier than usual. This can indicate that your dog is overheating and struggling to regulate their body temperature.

Gum discolouration is another important warning sign. Healthy gums in dogs are typically a pale pink colour. If your dog's gums appear bright red, dark red, purple, or blue, it could be a sign of heat stroke. This discolouration may indicate that your dog's blood oxygen levels are too low or that they are experiencing heat-related stress.

Finally, lethargy or weakness is a common symptom of heat stroke in dogs. Overheating can cause dogs to nap more than usual or have trouble standing or walking. They may become lethargic and unwilling to move, preferring to lie down and rest instead of engaging in their usual activities.

If you notice any of these warning signs, it is important to take immediate action to cool your dog down and seek veterinary assistance. Heat stroke can progress rapidly and lead to serious health complications or even death if left untreated.

What EMT-Bs Can Do for Stroke Patients

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Heatstroke causes: owner error, hot environments, thick fur, short noses, medical conditions

Heatstroke in dogs, also known as hyperthermia, is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention. It occurs when a dog's internal body temperature goes above 101.5°F, and anything above 105°F is considered heatstroke. Heatstroke can be caused by a variety of factors, including owner error, hot environments, the dog's physical characteristics, and medical conditions.

Owner Error

The most common cause of heatstroke in dogs is owner error, specifically leaving a dog in a closed vehicle. The temperature inside a closed car can become dangerously high in a matter of minutes, often leading to fatal consequences. Other owner errors include confining dogs in an exercise pen or crate without fresh water, direct sunlight, or adequate ventilation. It is important for owners to provide plenty of cool fresh water, shade, and frequent rest periods to prevent heatstroke in their dogs.

Hot Environments

Heatstroke in dogs typically occurs during the hottest and most humid parts of the year. Dogs that are exposed to high ambient temperatures for prolonged periods, especially in direct sunlight or without access to shade or water, are at risk of heatstroke. This can include being left in a yard on a hot day or being exposed to a hair dryer for an extended period.

Thick Fur

Dogs with thick or long hair, such as longhaired breeds, are more susceptible to heatstroke due to their increased difficulty in dissipating body heat.

Short Noses

Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds, such as pugs, boxers, and bulldogs, are at a higher risk of heatstroke due to their restricted airways. These breeds may exhibit signs of heatstroke even when temperatures and humidity are only moderately elevated.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical disorders can contribute to heatstroke in dogs. These include hypothyroidism, cardiac disease, and laryngeal paralysis. Any infection causing fever (pyrexia) can also lead to hyperthermia. Additionally, seizures or severe muscle spasms can elevate body temperature due to increased muscular activity.

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Heatstroke treatments: cool water, cool air, intravenous fluids, mild sedation, oxygen therapy

Heat stroke in dogs is a serious condition that requires immediate attention. It is characterised by an elevated body temperature, typically above 103°F (39.4°C), and can be caused by various factors such as inadequate ventilation, lack of shade or water, and excessive exercise. Here are some critical treatments for heat stroke in dogs, focusing on cool water, cool air, intravenous fluids, mild sedation, and oxygen therapy:

Cool Water

Using cool water is a crucial step in treating heat stroke in dogs. It helps lower the dog's body temperature safely and effectively. Here's how you can use cool water to treat heat stroke:

  • Immediately pour cool water (not cold) over the dog's head, stomach, armpits, and feet. Tap water at a temperature of 15-16°C is ideal for cooling.
  • Avoid using cold water as it can cause shock.
  • Wet towels or cloths can be used, but they should be placed under the dog rather than over them to avoid trapping heat. Ensure you continually replace the cloths as they can start to retain heat.
  • Allow the dog to drink small amounts of cool water.
  • Continue pouring cool water until the dog's breathing stabilises, but be careful not to overdo it to the point where they start shivering.

Cool Air

Providing a cool airflow is essential to help increase evaporative heat loss. Here's how you can create a cool environment:

  • Move the dog to a shaded and cool area, preferably with a continuous flow of air.
  • Avoid placing wet towels over the dog, as it can worsen the condition by trapping heat.

Intravenous Fluids

Intravenous fluids are commonly used to treat heat stroke in dogs. They help replenish lost fluids and support the dog's overall health and recovery.

Mild Sedation

Mild sedation is often administered to help calm and relax the dog during treatment. It aids in reducing any stress or anxiety the dog may be experiencing and facilitates the cooling process.

Oxygen Therapy

Low-concentration oxygen therapy is used to support the dog's breathing and ensure adequate oxygen levels. This is crucial, especially if the dog is experiencing difficulty breathing, which is a common symptom of heat stroke.

Remember, it is essential to monitor the dog's rectal temperature during treatment. Discontinue cooling measures once the dog shows signs of recovery or when their temperature falls below 103°F (39.4°C) to prevent hypothermia. Always seek veterinary assistance as soon as possible, even while administering first aid.

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Heatstroke prevention: water, shade, ventilation, avoiding hot walks, limiting exercise

Heatstroke is a serious and life-threatening condition that can affect dogs during the warmer months. It is caused by a dog's inability to cool down, which can lead to devastating effects on their organs. As such, it is important to know how to prevent heatstroke in dogs.

Firstly, always ensure your dog has access to water and shade when outdoors. Dogs cool themselves primarily by panting, but they also need to drink water to regulate their body temperature. Therefore, it is crucial to keep their water bowls filled at all times. Additionally, provide plenty of cool, shady areas for them to rest in, both indoors and outdoors.

Secondly, avoid walking your dog during the hottest times of the day. Peak temperature hours can be dangerous for dogs, even for short walks. If possible, walk your dog in the early morning or late at night instead. If you must walk your dog during the day, bring water and take breaks in shaded areas. Also, consider taking shorter walks and avoiding steep hills or other strenuous activities.

Thirdly, keep your dog well-ventilated. A lack of adequate airflow can contribute to heatstroke. When it is hot, keep your dog inside with air conditioning or fans to keep them cool. If you need to leave your dog at home, keep the AC on or set up multiple electric fans to maintain a cool environment.

Finally, limit your dog's exercise in the heat. Choose cooler times of the day for play or training sessions, as even short periods of exercise in hot, humid weather can cause heatstroke. Be mindful of your dog's breed, age, weight, and any medical disorders they may have, as these factors can increase their susceptibility to heatstroke.

By following these prevention tips, you can help keep your dog safe and healthy during warm weather.

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Heatstroke complications: organ failure, kidney failure, intestinal bleeding, abnormal blood clotting

Heat stroke in dogs is a life-threatening condition that can lead to serious secondary complications and even death. The prognosis depends on how high the dog's body temperature has risen, how long the hyperthermia persists, and the dog's physical condition prior to the heat stroke. If the dog's body temperature does not become extremely high, most healthy dogs will recover quickly if treated immediately. However, some dogs may experience permanent organ damage or even die at a later date from complications that develop as a result of hyperthermia.

Organ Failure

Organ failure is a serious complication that can occur when a dog's body temperature rises to critical levels. The critical temperature for multiple organ failure and impending death is around 107°F to 109°F (41.2°C to 42.7°C). At these temperatures, the dog's body systems begin to shut down, leading to organ failure and death.

Kidney Failure

Heat stroke can cause acute kidney injury (AKI) in dogs, which is often subclinical at presentation. Damage occurs in both the renal tubules and the glomeruli, leading to decreased renal function. Kidney failure can be life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary care.

Intestinal Bleeding

Intestinal ischemia and hypoxia are common complications of heat stroke in dogs. This is due to blood pooling within large internal organs such as the spleen and liver, which contributes to the development of shock. Intestinal bleeding can be a sign of intestinal damage and requires immediate medical attention.

Abnormal Blood Clotting

Heat stroke can also cause abnormal blood clotting, known as disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). This occurs due to thermal endothelial cellular injury, which leads to the activation of the coagulation cascade and the formation of multiple microthrombi. DIC can progress to overt DIC, a major factor in the morbidity and mortality of heat stroke patients.

Frequently asked questions

The most telling symptom of heat stroke in dogs is excessive panting. Other symptoms may include signs of discomfort such as drooling, reddened gums, vomiting, diarrhoea, mental dullness or loss of consciousness, uncoordinated movement, and collapse.

Call your veterinarian or the nearest emergency animal hospital and tell them you are on your way. On the way to the veterinarian, travel with the windows open and the air conditioner on. Remove the dog from the hot environment immediately and place them in front of a fan. Cool your dog off with cool water and allow them to drink small amounts of cool water.

As a pet owner, it is important to be aware of the outside temperature and take appropriate measures to prevent heat stroke, especially during hot and humid conditions. When outdoors, always make sure your dog is in a well-ventilated area with access to plenty of water and shade.

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