Heat Stroke In Dogs: When To Stop Cooling Treatments

Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition in dogs that requires immediate attention and treatment. It occurs when dogs are unable to reduce their body temperature by panting, which is their primary way of regulating body temperature. Dogs with a restricted airway, such as brachycephalic breeds (short-nosed dogs), are at a higher risk of developing heat stroke. The critical temperature for multiple organ failure and impending death is around 107°F to 109°F (41.2°C to 42.7°C). Therefore, it is crucial to know when to stop cooling a dog with heat stroke to prevent further complications and ensure their safety.

Move the dog to a cool area and pour cool water over them

If you suspect that your dog is suffering from heatstroke, it is important to act quickly and move them to a cool area. Heatstroke is a dangerous and life-threatening condition that can lead to organ failure and death. The critical temperature where multiple organ failure and impending death occurs is around 107°F to 109°F (41.2°C to 42.7°C).

To start the cooling process, move your dog to a well-ventilated, cool area. Get them away from any direct sources of heat and into an area with good airflow. If possible, take them into an air-conditioned room to help speed up the cooling process.

Once in a cool area, begin to pour cool water over your dog. It is important to use cool or tepid water, rather than cold water, to avoid causing shock. Do not immerse your dog in water, but instead, gently pour or spray the water over their body, especially on their underside, head, stomach, armpits, and feet. Avoid pouring water on or near your dog's head, as there is a risk of them inhaling water, which could lead to drowning, especially for flat-faced and unconscious dogs.

While cooling your dog, you can also use a fan to blow cool air on them, further aiding in the evaporation of heat. If you have a rectal thermometer, monitor your dog's temperature closely. Stop the cooling process once your dog's temperature reaches 103°F to 103.5°F. At this point, further cooling can lead to hypothermia and dangerously low body temperatures.

Throughout the process, allow your dog to drink small amounts of cool water. It is important not to force them to drink if they are not awake and alert. Continue to pour cool water over your dog until their breathing starts to settle, but be careful not to overcool them to the point of shivering.

Once your dog's temperature has stabilized and their breathing has improved, it is important to seek veterinary care. Even if your dog appears to be recovering, heatstroke can have serious complications, and it is crucial to have them examined by a veterinarian.

Avoid using cold water or ice packs

When a dog is suffering from heatstroke, it is important to take immediate action to cool them down. However, it is crucial to avoid using cold water or ice packs during this process. Here are several reasons why you should avoid using cold water or ice packs when treating heatstroke in dogs:

Gradual Cooling is Key

Gradual cooling is essential when treating heatstroke in dogs. Using cold water or ice packs can cause a dog's body temperature to drop too rapidly, leading to a dangerous condition called hypothermia. The goal is to slowly bring down their body temperature to a safe level, which can be achieved by using cool or tepid water instead of cold.

Constriction of Blood Vessels

Applying ice or cold water directly to a dog's skin can cause constriction of the blood vessels under the skin. This constriction can actually hinder the cooling process by preventing effective evaporative cooling. It is important to remember that dogs cool themselves primarily by panting, and using cold water or ice packs can interfere with this natural cooling mechanism.

Shock Risk

Using cold water or ice packs can put a dog at risk of going into shock. When treating heatstroke, it is important to avoid any factors that may cause additional stress to the dog's body. Shock is a life-threatening condition and should be avoided at all costs. By using cool or tepid water, you can effectively cool the dog without the risk of inducing shock.

Increased Heat Retention

When using cool wet cloths or towels, it is important to continually replace them as they will start to retain heat. Wet towels placed over the dog can worsen their condition by trapping heat against their body. This is especially important to consider if you are unable to continuously monitor and replace the cooling towels. It is recommended to place wet towels underneath the dog instead of on top to aid in cooling without the risk of heat retention.

Safe and Effective Cooling Methods

There are several safe and effective alternatives to using cold water or ice packs when treating heatstroke in dogs. Moving the dog to a cool, well-ventilated area, offering small amounts of cool water for them to drink, and using a fan to increase airflow are all recommended methods. Additionally, gently splashing or spraying cool water on the dog's body, focusing on areas like the paws, stomach, armpits, and head, can help lower their body temperature gradually.

Monitor the dog's temperature

Monitoring a dog's temperature is critical when treating heatstroke. A rectal thermometer is the best way to accurately assess a dog's body temperature. You can use a traditional glass thermometer or a digital thermometer. Alternatively, you can use an under-the-armpit thermometer, such as the Mella non-invasive pet thermometer, which sends the temperature reading to your phone.

A dog's normal body temperature ranges from 39.0 to 39.4 degrees Celsius (101.5 to 103.0 degrees Fahrenheit). When a dog's body temperature exceeds 39.4ºC (103ºF), it is considered abnormal or hyperthermic. Body temperatures above 41ºC (106ºF) are most commonly associated with heat stroke. The critical temperature where multiple organ failure and death can occur is around 41.2-42.7ºC (107-109ºF).

If your dog's temperature is above 41ºC (106ºF), it is a medical emergency, and you should immediately transport your dog to a veterinary hospital for treatment. If the temperature is above 39.4ºC (103ºF), it is still considered abnormal, and you should seek veterinary advice. If the temperature is below this threshold but you notice any signs of heatstroke, such as heavy panting, rapid breathing, drooling, or lethargy, it is essential to monitor their temperature closely and be prepared to take action if it starts to rise.

When treating heatstroke, it is crucial to gradually lower the dog's body temperature to avoid overcooling, which can be as harmful as overheating. Monitor the dog's rectal temperature every 30 to 60 seconds during the cooling process. Continue the cooling measures until the dog's temperature reaches 39.4ºC (103ºF). At this point, discontinue the cooling measures to prevent the dog's temperature from dropping too low.

Throughout the treatment, ensure a continuous flow of air across the dog to increase evaporative heat loss. You can use a fan to blow cool air on them, but avoid blowing air or pouring water near the dog's head, as there is a risk of water inhalation, especially for flat-faced and unconscious dogs.

Look out for warning signs of heatstroke

Heatstroke is a common, life-threatening condition in dogs, so it's important to know the warning signs. The early signs of heatstroke include:

• Heavy panting and rapid breathing
• Excessive drooling
• Dry mucous membranes
• Bright red gums and tongue
• Skin that’s hot to the touch
• Higher heart rate
• Hyperactivity
• Difficulty maintaining balance

As the dog's condition worsens, you may notice:

• Signs of shock
• Pale mucous membranes with white or blue gums
• Very rapid heart rate
• Dehydration
• Pupil dilation
• Irregular pulse
• Muscle tremors
• Lethargy and unwillingness to move
• Loss of bladder and bowel control
• Collapse
• Coma

If you notice any of these symptoms, act quickly and precisely to give your dog the proper care. Move them to a cool, well-ventilated area and start to slowly cool them down with cool (not cold) water. Do not cover them with wet towels, as this can worsen the condition by trapping heat. Instead, place a wet towel under them and use a fan to help increase evaporative heat loss. Allow the dog to drink small amounts of cool water, and take them to the vet as soon as possible.

Seek veterinary care if necessary

If your dog is exhibiting signs of heat stroke, don't panic. It's important to act quickly and precisely to give your dog the proper care. Here is what you should do:

• Call your vet immediately: Even if your dog is only showing mild symptoms, it's important to call your vet. They will be able to determine if your dog's situation is life-threatening and instruct you on how to cool your dog down safely and gradually.
• Cool your dog down gradually: If your dog is not experiencing signs of shock, your vet will likely recommend that you work to cool your dog down gradually before bringing them to the clinic. For mild cases of heat stroke, giving your dog some water and taking them to an air-conditioned space is usually enough to get them back to normal. For more advanced cases, cool your dog gradually with cool (not cold) water. Gently splash the water on them with a towel or washcloth, frequently checking your dog's temperature to prevent hypothermia. Stop once your dog's temperature is in the normal range.
• Take your dog to the vet: Once your dog's temperature reaches 103°F (39.4°C) or if you're unable to reduce the temperature significantly, bring your dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Severely affected dogs may require fluids, medication, support, and oxygen. Complications may not occur immediately, so it's important to let your vet determine the type of follow-up treatment required.
• Be aware of the risks of reoccurrence: Some veterinarians advise that once a dog has experienced heat stroke, it's more likely to recur. Keep this in mind and take extra precautions to prevent future heat stroke episodes.

Remember, heat stroke is a serious and life-threatening condition. Immediate action and correct treatment can mean the difference between a swift and complete recovery and long-term complications or even death. Always prioritize your dog's health and seek veterinary care if you have any concerns.

Frequently asked questions