Heat stroke in dogs: everything you need to know to prevent it

The arrival of summer with its high temperatures can put our animals' health at risk. Keep in mind that a heat stroke is considered a serious veterinary emergency, and therefore, you should give it the importance it deserves. Although it is a very common setback during the summer period, it can occur in various ways and at any time. Therefore, in this article, we will tell you everything you need to know to prevent it and how to act in case of need. Let's get started!

Canine Hyperthermia.

Before getting into the subject, it is necessary for you to know what you are going to face. The concept of «hyperthermia» refers to the increase in body temperature above normal or healthy values. As with all types of anomalies, it is necessary to know its origin to know how to act accordingly. In this sense, despite the usual origin being fever caused as a response to infectious processes or viral diseases (pyrogenic hyperthermia), the heat stroke we analyze in this article (non-pyrogenic hyperthermia) is also among the most frequent possibilities.

Elements that favor a heat stroke in dogs.

Dogs, like people, are exposed to the characteristic setbacks of summer. However, there are a series of risk elements that promote them and that it is essential to know to avoid their appearance:

• Heart diseases: Heart diseases like heart murmur or heart failure can cause other serious problems if combined with intense exercise or high temperatures. For example: fainting, fatigue, or coughing.

• Tracheal collapse: Dogs suffering from this chronic disease obviously show greater weakness to heat and this can cause coughing, fatigue, and even fainting. Although surgical control is possible, never neglect their medication or weight.

• Obesity and overweight: As we just mentioned, weight control is essential. Overweight dogs are prone to more health problems and really suffer with the increase in temperatures.

• Brachycephalic dog syndrome: Contrary to what it might seem, it is a condition relatively common in breeds like the Shar Pei, English Bulldog, or Boxer. In case you didn't know, their airways can become obstructed, causing breathing problems and even leading to a collapse.

• Laryngeal paralysis: This pathology affects, especially, elderly dogs , it is potentially harmful to the health of dogs and can lead to severe respiratory problems. Even so, it is possible to maintain control with medication in mild cases or apply surgery if the situation requires it.

As we have previously mentioned, even though there are risk elements or agents, no dog is free from suffering this kind of mishap if they do not receive the proper attention and care.

Learn to recognize the symptoms of heat stroke in dogs.

As obvious as it may seem, the main tool for detecting if our pets are in good health is observation. If you start noticing sudden changes in their behavior, suspect that something is not as it should be. Below, we reveal the signs you should be aware of to act as soon as possible:

• The adequate body temperature is between 38 and 39 degrees. Any figure above this range is a clear indicator that something is wrong and needs to be examined by a specialist. Remember that the only reliable way to measure temperature is by using a thermometer.

• A fast heart rate, rapid breathing and panting with drool are some of the symptoms of heat stroke.

• The gums and mucous membranes may take on a bluish tone caused by low oxygen levels in the blood.

• The lack of balance, muscle weakness and the presence of tremors are also typical in these types of situations due to the decrease in sugars and salts in their body. Additionally,  diarrhea and vomiting are not ruled out.

• In more severe cases, the dog may suffer from kidney or liver failure, bleeding, loss of consciousness, multiple organ failure and brain damage.

What to do to prevent heat stroke in dogs.

Once we have seen the most notable signs to detect a possible heat stroke, it is time to learn how to prevent heat stroke in dogs:

• Provide good hydration: Make sure your dog has clean and fresh water at all times. At Mellerware we have an automatic water dispenser that will make the task easier for you.

• Follow the correct routine : The time of greatest activity should be within the coolest range of the day.

• Avoid prolonged confinements: Do not leave your dog inside a carrier longer than strictly necessary. In reference to this, keep in mind that temperatures change suddenly in the summer season.

• Look for shaded areas: At every stop made during a hike or walk, it is vital to find a place with shade so that the animal does not suffer excessively.

How to act in case of canine heatstroke.

Even though we have learned to prevent possible heatstroke, it can happen without us being able to prevent it. For this, we offer you the steps you should follow to act in the best way:

• Move the dog away from the sun and take it to a cool place. In fact, if you have access to a fan, you can gradually cool it down by using it at low power.

• Apply damp cloths (not cold or frozen) on the neck, head, paws, chest, and abdomen. However, do not bathe or cover the animal under any circumstances.

• Keep its mouth hydrated with a spray.

• Take the temperature very frequently until you notice improvement or until it drops to 39 degrees.

• Visit the veterinarian to check recovery and rule out other problems.

After reading this article, it is very clear how to prevent and act in case of a possible heatstroke in our pets. Remember that at Mellerware we have the right equipment to help you with their care and everything you may need. Feel free to take a look!