Heat Stroke

We are taking into consideration how hot its going to be this weekend.... But do you know what to look for? Did you know that your dog can over heat, even while swimming? Even dogs that generally jog with you every day for the last 4 years, can suddenly over heat.

Signs of heat stroke include (but are not limited to): body temperatures of 104-110F degrees, excessive panting, dark or bright red tongue and gums, staggering, stupor, seizures, bloody diarrhea or vomiting, coma, death. Brachycephalic breeds (the short-nosed breeds, such as Bulldogs, Boxers and Pugs), large heavy-coated breeds, and those dogs with heart or respiratory problems are more at risk for heat stroke.

If you suspect heat stroke in your pet, seek Veterinary attention immediately! Use cool water, not ice water, to cool your pet. (Very cold water will cause constriction of the blood vessels and impede cooling.) Do not aid cooling below 103 F degrees - some animals can actually get HYPOthermic, too cold. Offer ice cubes for the animal to lick on until you can reach your Veterinarian. Just because your animal is cooled and "appears" OK, do NOT assume everything is fine. Internal organs such as liver, kidneys, brain, etc., are definitely affected by the body temperature elevation, and blood tests and veterinary examination are needed to assess this. There is also a complex blood problem, called DIC (Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation) that can be a secondary complication to heat stroke that can be fatal.

Things you can do for your dog include: Taking walks early in the morning before it heats up for the day. Wearing protective footwear so the hot pavement doesn't burn them if you must take them out in the evenings. Carry at least one bottle of water JUST FOR THE DOG, and a collapsible bowl if your dog wont drink from the bottle, and offer that water often. Always carry a cell phone with emergency numbers including your vets number and the local emergency vet. Allow your dog to cool his pads if he starts panting. Don't bring them to crowded events on a really warm day, as they wont be able to properly cool down. Try to plan any and ALL walks and trips to allow shade stops often.