Buzz
Dogs do not have the same efficient heat dissipation mechanisms as humans; their bodies are designed to conserve heat rather than release it, making them more susceptible to overheating. Often, we overlook the signs of heatstroke in dogs until sudden symptoms appear. Heatstroke in dogs is a severe condition, and initial symptoms can become life-threatening within minutes. To ensure your dog's survival, it's crucial to learn how to treat heatstroke effectively.
Steps
Recognizing Heatstroke in Dogs
Assess the environmental temperature. This is critical when unusual symptoms begin to appear in your dog. Record the surrounding temperature and other conditions (such as direct sunlight exposure) along with your pet's activity before and during the onset of symptoms to assist your veterinarian.
- If your dog is trapped in a location like a car, you may not know the exact temperature, but noting the air temperature (e.g., 32°C) can help the veterinarian assess and care for your dog based on this information.
Note the early symptoms of heatstroke. Early recognition of heatstroke symptoms can help prevent permanent damage to your dog's internal organs. Some initial signs of heatstroke include:
- Heavy breathing or panting
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent vomiting
- Bright red tongue and pale gums
- Skin around the nose or neck not returning to normal after pinching
- Thick saliva
- Increased heart rate
Look for severe heatstroke signs. Heatstroke in dogs can become critical if they start showing the following symptoms:
- Severe difficulty breathing
- Gums turning bright red, then blue or purple
- Weakness and/or exhaustion
- Disorientation
- Unconsciousness or coma
Measure your dog's body temperature. One of the most effective ways to determine if your dog's body temperature is rising is by taking a rectal reading. A dog's normal body temperature ranges from 37.5-39.1°C. Heatstroke occurs at 39.4°C, and temperatures reaching 42.7°C are often fatal.
- Purchase a digital rectal thermometer (pet-specific).
- Lubricate the thermometer with petroleum jelly or KY.
- Ask someone to hold your dog's head and front body securely.
- Locate the rectum and lift the tail for visibility.
- Gently insert the thermometer about 2.5 cm into the rectum; do not let go of the thermometer.
- Wait until the thermometer beeps. Then, carefully remove it and read the temperature.
- Record your dog's body temperature to inform the veterinarian.
Treating Heatstroke in Dogs
Move your dog away from the heat source. If possible, take your dog to an air-conditioned room. If air conditioning is unavailable, relocate your pet to a shaded, well-ventilated area. Additionally, restrict your dog's activity; do not allow them to run around until the heatstroke symptoms have completely subsided.
- If feasible, carry your dog to a cooler spot instead of letting them walk.
Offer your dog cool water. Start by providing a small amount of water. Avoid giving your dog sports drinks. If your dog refuses water, you can substitute it with low-fat, unsalted beef or chicken broth.
- Do not force your pet to drink if they cannot do so freely. Instead, moisten their lips, gums, and tongue by soaking a cloth in water and gently squeezing it over these areas.
Use water to cool your dog's body. If possible, spray cool water over your dog. If using a hose, reduce the water pressure. Avoid submerging your pet in water, as this can cause a sudden drop in body temperature, leading to complications.
- The water temperature should not be too cold. Extremely cold water or ice can actually slow down the cooling process.
- Focus on cooling areas like the paws, head, and tail. You can also soak a towel in water and place it between the hind legs and under the armpits.
Contact an emergency veterinarian. If your dog does not respond to cooling measures, immediately contact (and visit) an emergency vet. Organ damage is a potential side effect of heatstroke, and undiagnosed complications can be fatal.
Apply rubbing alcohol to your pet's paw pads. Dogs release heat through their paw pads, so applying rubbing alcohol can help reduce their body temperature. Ensure the paws are not exposed to cold air afterward.
- Avoid using too much alcohol, as it can be harmful if accidentally ingested.
Avoid covering or confining your dog. You can use a damp towel to wipe your dog's body, but do not drape it over them, as this can trap heat. Additionally, do not place your dog in a confined crate, as it prevents heat dissipation.
- Place your dog on a cool tile floor and use fans to circulate air around them.
Preventing Heatstroke in Dogs
Be aware of conditions that can cause or worsen heatstroke. Older dogs, overweight dogs, or those with a history of heart disease or seizures are at higher risk of heatstroke and may struggle to cope with rising temperatures.
- Brachycephalic breeds (such as Pugs or Bulldogs) have poor heat dissipation and are particularly vulnerable.
- Certain breeds are less tolerant of high temperatures than others. Breeds to avoid in hot conditions include Bulldogs (English and French), Boxers, Saint Bernards, Pugs, and Shih Tzus.
Never leave your dog in a car during summer. Avoid leaving your pet in a car, even if the weather doesn't seem excessively hot. If windows are cracked, the temperature inside can rise rapidly within minutes, potentially proving fatal for your pet.
Groom your dog appropriately for the weather. Dogs with long or thick fur should be trimmed during the summer months. Professional groomers can style your dog in a way that suits the season.
Keep your dog indoors during extreme heat. On exceptionally hot days, ensure your dog stays in an air-conditioned environment. If this isn't possible, provide a shaded and cool outdoor area for them.
Provide shade and water for your dog. If your dog is outdoors during extreme heat, ensure they have access to drinking water and a shaded area. Some people spread ice on the ground for their dogs to lie on during peak heat.
Allow your dog to swim safely in hot weather. If your dog has access to rivers, streams, or lakes, they may jump in to cool off during hot days. Encourage your pet to swim or gently spray water on their body to prevent heatstroke.
- Supervise your dog while swimming and avoid letting them access deep water (especially pools, as they may struggle to escape) if they are not strong swimmers.
- If there are no suitable pools or beaches nearby, consider purchasing a children's pool for your dog. These are available at department stores for around 500,000 VND and are ideal for dogs who are not good swimmers, lack control without a leash, or are uncomfortable around other dogs or strangers.
- Avoid letting your dog drink or swim in water contaminated with algae, as it can be harmful.
Give your dog breaks if working in hot weather. If your dog is a working breed, such as a herding dog, ensure they take breaks on hot days. During these breaks, provide shade and cool water for them.
Tips
- To learn more about preventing heatstroke, you can research information online.
- To calm your dog, remain composed. If you panic, your dog will sense it and become anxious, worsening the situation. Stay calm, apply appropriate cooling methods, and take your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Focus on doing everything you can to save your pet's life.
- DO NOT shave double-coated dogs to help them cool down. Their undercoat helps regulate temperature, keeping them cool in heat and warm in cold.
- Mix equal parts rubbing alcohol and water to apply to your dog's paw pads.
