09/06/2015
Heat Stroke in Dogs
Heat stroke, also commonly known as heat exhaustion, is one of the common preventable causes of emergency room visits during the summer months. When the surrounding temperature and humidity reaches above tolerable levels, the dog’s body starts to acquire heat from the environment faster than it can dissipate that heat. This leads to elevation in body temperature that is above the generally accepted normal range. Although normal values for dogs vary slightly, it usually is accepted that body temperatures above 103° F (39° C) are abnormal. A heat stroke can lead to multiple organ dysfunction. Heat stroke is therefore a deadly condition that can kill your beloved companion, even with emergency treatment. A dog’s only means of dissipating excess body heat is through panting as dogs only perspire around their paws and bare (hairless area) around nose. So, to rid themselves of excess heat, animals pant. The air that moves through the nasal passages picks up excess heat from the body. As it is expelled through the mouth, the extra heat leaves along with it. But, in a confined closed area with increased temperature, panting becomes inefficient to get rid of body heat. The prime cause for this serious condition is inattention by their owner. In most cases the family pet is left “for just a minute”, but unfortunately the owner is delayed and returns to find their pet in serious condition.
Common causes for heat stroke are:
1. Being locked in a hot car.
2. Being left outside on a sunny day or tied outside in a sunny day, without access to shade and water.
3. Exercising excessively in hot, particularly humid days.
Other factors that contribute to heat stroke are:
1. Weight of dogs. Overweight dogs are more prone to overheating due to the extra layers of fat that act as insulation and trap heat in their bodies restricting their breathing.
2. Age is also a factor in an animal’s tendency to overheat. Older dog’s organ systems may not be functioning optimally, leaving them prone to overheating. Very young puppies may not have a fully developed temperature regulating system so they are more prone to overheat.
3. Shape of the dog’s nasal passage can contribute to their tendency to overheat. If you also have short faced (Brachycephalic) breeds such as Boxers, Pugs and Pekingese, they are more prone to heat stroke because their nasal passages are smaller and it’s more difficult for them to circulate sufficient air for cooling.
4. Another contributing factor is coat of your pet. A dark coat will become overheated more quickly than a lighter one. Long-haired and heavily coated dogs are more vulnerable to the summer heat.
Signs of Heat Stroke
1. Intense and rapid panting
2. Salivation
3• Wide eyed look of distress
5. Staggering and weakness
6. A body temperature of about 105 degrees or higher is probable evidence of heat stroke
7. Anxious expression
8. Refusal to obey commands
9. Rapid heartbeat
10. Vomiting
11. Gums that appear pale and dry
12. Unconsciousness
Most heat stroke victims are dehydrated as well, and their blood thickens to the point that stagnation of blood, blood clotting, and eventual death of tissues may occur.
Heat stroke can be prevented. Heat stroke Education and awareness are key to prevent this dangerous situation. Following are few tips that can be very helpful in prevention of heat stroke.
1. Don’t take out your pet during the hottest times of the day: Both high temperatures and direct sunlight put extra stress on the dog's body. Plan your walks or outdoors with pets for cooler times instead.
2. Bring extra water: Dehydration can add to heat stress. Panting eliminates both heat and moisture from the body, making water replenishment essential. Make sure when you're out, you bring extra water for your dog along with you.
3. Never leave your dog in the car: In a closed space such as a car, the temperature can reach at dangerous level within minutes. Rolling the windows down makes negligible changes in the car's internal temperatures. If you can't take your dog with you, then it would be a wise decision to leave him or her at home.
4. Provide shelter from the sun: Dogs who spend time outside during the day need protection from direct sunlight. Shady trees, covered spaces, and access to water are essential. Make sure that water is close and easy accessible as there are cases when a dog’s chain gets entangled over itself leading to restricted movement of dog and thus failure to reach the water bowl. In addition, hot concrete can burn a dog's pads, so make sure there is protection from hot surfaces for your dog's feet.
5. Let your dog play or be with water: Swimming or wading is an excellent way to lower your dog's body temperature and stress during the hottest times of the day. Dogs don't sweat the way humans do, so wetting down the dog's coat is an alternative way to allow evaporation to dissipate heat.
6. Don’t let your dog become overweight: Overweight dogs are also at higher risk for heat exhaustion and stroke, particularly when they are exercising. Avoid heavy exercise during summers and provide water and shade while your dog is exercising.
How Should a Pet Owner deal with a dog suffering from heat stroke?
Take your pet to a veterinary hospital as quickly as possible. While transporting your pet, begin to lower his body temperature by placing towels soaked in cool water over the animal and under surface of belly. But owner should be careful about not lowering the temperature too quickly. So avoid using cold water or ice to cool him. Give him ad lib water to drink.
