Dogs are beloved friends and integral members of our households. We frequently take them on outside excursions or walks, but we must be mindful of the risks of canine heat stroke when the weather rises. Recognizing the symptoms and treating your dog’s heat stroke could save his life.
What causes a heat stroke?
Hyperthermia, or a high body temperature, is a “heat stroke.” Generally speaking, a pet is regarded as abnormal or hyperthermic if its body temperature is higher than 103°F (39.4°C). The most frequent cause of heat stroke, a body temperature above 106°F (41°F) without any prior sickness, is exposure to high external or environmental heat. About 107°F to 109°F (41.2°C to 42.7°C) is the critical temperature where multiple organ failure and impending death take place.
Signs and symptoms of heat strokes in dogs
Watch out for a few warning signals if you think your dog may be experiencing heat stroke. These indicators include:
- a lot of panting
- Drooling
- Pale or crimson gums
- a quick heartbeat
- fragility or failure
- nausea or diarrhea
- Seizures
Short-nosed dogs, like bulldogs, pugs, and boxers, are especially vulnerable to heat strokes because they can’t efficiently pant, which is how dogs primarily control their body temperature. Obesity, age, dehydration, and underlying medical disorders are other elements that can make dogs more susceptible to heat stroke. If your dog exhibits any of these signs, you must act immediately.
Causes
When a dog’s body temperature exceeds 104°F (40°C), they suffer from a heat stroke that can cause organ damage, brain impairment, and even death. Common causes of canine heat stroke include the following:
- Overheating: Dogs are quickly overheated in hot, muggy conditions, especially if left outside for a long time without access to shade or water.
- Exercise: Dogs not used to regular exercise might quickly overheat and suffer from heat stroke while they exercise.
- Vehicles: Leaving dogs in parked vehicles, even for a few times, can be exceedingly risky since the vehicle’s temperature can increase quickly to deadly levels.
- Lack of water: To avoid dehydration and stay healthy, dogs must always have access to clean, fresh water.
Prevention
These are some pointers for safeguarding dogs against heatstroke:
Provide a lot of water: Make your dog always have access to clean, cool water. Bring a foldable water bowl and a water bottle when you’re out and about with your dog to hydrate them on the move.
Avoid working out when it’s hot outside: Try to exercise your dog in the early morning or late evening. If you must exercise your dog during the day, look for a shaded spot and stop frequently to allow them to relax and cool down.
Keep your dog out of a heated automobile: Never leave your dog in a parked car, even with cracked windows. Even on a moderate day, the temperature inside a car can climb quickly and turn lethal for your dog.
Give ventilation and cover: Ensure your dog has access to a shaded place and lots of airflows if they spend time outside. A covered porch or a doghouse with good ventilation can offer protection from the sun and heat.
