Tips to Recognize and Prevent Heatstroke in Dogs
Your dog may love to play outside on warm days. However, overheating and hot temperatures can be life-threatening. Knowing the heatstroke symptoms in dogs will be helpful for you to recognize this condition and take necessary actions. If you quickly cool down your dog and get them to the vet, you can improve the chances of recovery and survival.
In this blog, we’ll look at heatstroke, how you can recognize it in dogs, and what you should do if you suspect it.
Meaning of Heatstroke in Dogs
Heatstroke in dogs is a serious medical condition if your dog’s temperature reaches 105F or higher. Heatstroke happens when your dog loses the ability to cool down.
Dogs usually cool themselves by panting as they do not sweat. If a hot environment prevents cooling, your dog can’t maintain a regular and safe body temperature.
If your dog’s body temperature gets too high, they will likely experience heatstroke. Dangerous overheating could be life-threatening, so it is essential to get dog help quickly.
Causes of Heatstroke in Dogs
Many situations may lead to heatstroke in dogs. As per Iowa Vet Specialties, leaving a dog in a car on a warm day is one example that may rapidly lead to heatstroke.
The temperature inside a car in the sun may rise to 120°F just 20 minutes. It may occur even when the temperature outdoors is only 75°F. In these environments, a few dogs may develop heatstroke in only 30 minutes leading to death that may happen in an hour.
It is best not to leave dogs in hot cars to get heatstroke. Intense exercise in a humid, hot environment may make it challenging for a dog to cool down. Playing on a hot day can also pose a danger for your dog, especially without access to water and shade.
Other factors may also contribute to heatstroke. For example, in the case of large dog breeds and dogs with thick fur, they are usually at a higher risk of getting heatstroke. Apart from these, older or obese dogs are also prone to heatstroke.
Brachycephalic dogs like Boston terriers, bulldogs, and pugs get heatstroke. It is because these breeds have short noses making it harder for them to breathe. Any breathing issues limit your dog’s ability to efficiently cool themselves by panting. As a result, they are prone to overheating.
Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs
If your dog experiences heatstroke, you may notice many or some of these symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Not wanting or not being able to get up
- Being unusually quiet
- Dry nose
- Increased heart rate
- Tongue or red gums
- Excessive drooling and panting
If heatstroke progresses and the dog’s body temperatures keep on rising, they might experience the following symptoms:
- Death
- Coma
- Collapse
- Weakness
- Incoordination or a staggering gait
- Seizures
- Muscle tremors
- Blood in poop or their mouth
How to Help an Overheated Dog?
Heatstroke is one of the veterinary emergencies. If you notice heatstroke symptoms, your priority is to cool down your dog. Move them to a ventilated, shaded area right away. In this case, an air-conditioned space is an ideal location. You should offer your dog cool water to drink and carefully monitor them.
Call your vet for help and prepare to transport your dog as you do this. If your regular vet fails to see your dog, you should contact your nearest emergency clinic. If your dog’s symptoms worsen, you must continue cooling them while getting your vet’s help.
FAQ’s
1. What are the long-term effects of heatstroke on my dog?
Dogs experiencing heatstroke have a guarded to poor prognosis. The dog may often die within 24 hours of experiencing heatstroke.
2. How to prevent heatstroke in the future?
You may prevent heatstroke in dogs by carefully monitoring them during the warm weather. In addition, it would help to avoid excessive exercise, especially during the hot days.
Take the dog for a walk in the evening or early morning when the temperature is more relaxed.
Conclusion
Heatstroke in dogs is life-threatening and could be fatal, especially without any swift intervention. You can prevent heatstroke by carefully managing your dog’s activity during the warm weather. It is also essential to recognize heatstroke symptoms early on, like excessive panting and not having energy. If your vet recommends some medication, you can download the wiserx card, the best pet medication discount card.
