Dogs tend to become overheated very quickly in the summer months, even more quickly than some humans. What may be a fun, relaxing day in the sun for us could quickly become a fatal day for your pets. This is why it is important for us to learn about heatstrokes in dogs and take preventative measures to stop them before they occur.

What Is Heatstroke?

When a dog’s body temperature rises above 105 degrees Fahrenheit without previous signs of illness, this is considered a heatstroke. Dogs only have a few ways to cool off, and when high temperatures overcome the dog's ability to dissipate heat, a heat stroke will occur. The level of damage occurring to your pet's health will depend on how high the temperature becomes, and how long the pet is exposed to this high temperature. For this reason, it is extremely important to seek help right away for a dog who is showing symptoms of a heatstroke.

Signs of Heatstroke

Heatstrokes in dogs are life threatening and can lead to extremely serious complications. It is important to be aware of and watch for these early signs of heatstroke so you are able to address the situation before it is too late.

Early signs of heatstroke include:

• Heavy panting and difficulty breathing

• Thick saliva, drooling, vomiting, and/or diarrhea

• Bright red tongue & mucus membranes, which turn pale/white and become tacky as shock sets in

• Unsteadiness & staggering

• Seizures

• Lethargy

• Warmer than usual skin

As exposure to excessive heat goes on, the dog’s condition worsens and includes signs of shock: pale mucous membranes with white or blue gums, very rapid heart rate, and a drop in blood pressure. The dog hyperventilates, and dehydration becomes more severe. Pupils dilate, the pulse becomes more irregular, and the dog has muscle tremors; he may become lethargic and unwilling to move; urinate or defecate uncontrollably; collapse and become comatose.

Prevention Is Key

Dogs live their lives to please their owners, so if we ask them to join us on a hot summer day, they’ll do so with enthusiasm. It is up to us to ensure our pets are going out into safe conditions. We should choose cooler times of day for play time, always provide plenty of cool, fresh water & shade, allow frequent rest periods when it is hot, and NEVER leave our pet alone in a hot car. If you do suspect a heatstroke in your dog, immediate treatment can mean the difference between life & death. Please call us and schedule an emergency appointment right away if your dog shows any of these symptoms.