HEAT STROKE AND HYPERTHERMIA

Dogs are more susceptible to heatstroke than humans.

NEVER, EVER LEAVE A DOG IN A PARKED CAR OR IN THE SUN OR WITHOUT WATER!!

Heat stroke refers to a body temperature exceeding 103 degrees. Body temperatures above 106 degrees without previous signs of illness are most commonly associated with exposure to excessive external or environmental heat. High temperatures cause chemical reactions that break down body cells which leads to dehydration and blood thickening which can cause blood clotting and subsequent death to tissues such as the liver, brain and intestinal cells. Temperatures of 106 degrees can cause death very quickly.

The most common cause of heat stroke or hyperthermia is leaving a dog in a car with inadequate ventilation. The dog’s body temperature in this situation can elevate very rapidly, often within minutes. It is important to remember that dogs cannot control their body temperature by sweating as humans do, since they only have a relatively small number of sweat glands located in their footpads. Their primary way of regulating body heat is by panting.

Dogs with a restricted airway such as the brachycephalic breeds (flat faced dogs such as pugs, boxers and bulldogs) are at greater risk. In these breeds, clinical signs of heat stroke can occur when the outside temperature and humidity are only moderately elevated. Dogs that are muzzled for any reason can be at greater risk since their ability to pant is restricted by the muzzle.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency!! COOL THE DOG, in a controlled manner by pouring cool water over the head, stomach, underarms and feet. Cool cloths may be applied to these areas. Rubbing alcohol may be applied to the footpads to dilate pores and increase perspiration. Ice may be placed around the mouth and anus. Monitor the temperature using a rectal digital thermometer, and discontinue the cooling process when the temperature reaches 103 degrees.

Prognosis for heat stroke – depends on how high the body temperature elevated, how long the hyperthermia persisted and what the physical condition of the pet was prior to the heat stroke. If the body temperature did not become extremely high, most healthy pets will recover quickly if they are treated immediately. Some pets may experience permanent organ damage or may die at a later date from complications that developed secondarily to the hyperthermia. Pets that experience hyperthermia are at a greater risk for subsequent heat stroke due to damage to the thermoregulatory center.

Prevention – NEVER leave your dog in a parked car. Temperatures can reach 120 degrees in as little as ten minutes, especially in the sun. Leaving the windows cracked helps very little. For outside dogs, provide shade, ventilation, wading pool, and cool drinking water. Make sure water containers are large enough to supply water at all times and secure so that the container can’t flip over. Do not “tether” dogs in a yard. Clip heavy coated dogs to a one inch length. Do not exercise your dog on hot days.