Understanding Heat Stroke in Dogs

Heat stroke, also known as hyperthermia, occurs when a dog’s body temperature rises to dangerous levels. Unlike humans, dogs lack efficient cooling mechanisms, making them more vulnerable to heat-related issues. Dogs primarily dissipate heat through panting and limited sweating through their paw pads, which makes them prone to overheating.

Causes of Heat Stroke

Several factors can contribute to heat stroke in dogs, including:

High temperatures and exposure to extreme heat: especially in areas with high humidity, can quickly raise a dog’s body temperature.

Poor ventilation: Leaving a dog in a confined space without adequate airflow, such as a hot car or a poorly ventilated room, can significantly increase the risk of heat stroke.

Overexertion: Too much exertion during exercise or playtime in hot weather can push a dog’s body beyond its ability to cool down.

Breed and age: Dogs with with shortened snouts and mature dogs are more susceptible to heat stroke due to their compromised ability to regulate body temperature.

Symptoms of Heat Stroke

Recognising the signs of heat stroke in your dog is crucial so you can take immediate action to support them. The following symptoms may indicate your dog is experiencing heat stroke:

• Heavy panting and excessive drooling
• Rapid breathing and increased heart rate
• Weakness, dizziness, or collapsing
• Bright red gums and tongue
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Seizures or loss of consciousness

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s vital to act quickly to prevent further complications.

Preventing Heat Stroke

Prevention is key when it comes to protecting your dog from heat stroke. Here are some essential measures you can take:

Provide shade and fresh water: Ensure that your dog has access to shaded areas and clean drinking water at all times.

Limit outdoor activities: Avoid exercising your dog during the hottest parts of the day. Instead, opt for early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are cooler. You always can use the pavement test. If when touching the pavement for more than 5 seconds and it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog.

Never leave your dog in a parked car: We know this, but as a reminder the reason why is the inside of a cars temperature can raise rapidly. It’s always safer to leave your dog at home in a cool space.

Create a cool environment: If you have a room in your home where you can keep the curtains or blinds closed to keep out the sun and heat, it can become a cooler space for your pets. After sunset open the doors and windows to allow the cooler air to flow through. Items like cool mats and cooling vests are great for your pet to rest in the shade with to keep cool.

Emergency Care for Heat Stroke

If you suspect your dog is suffering from heat stroke, it’s crucial to act swiftly:

Move your dog to a cool area: Immediately relocate your dog to a shaded or air-conditioned space.

Apply cool water: Use cool (not cold) water to wet your dog’s body, focusing on the head, neck, and groin areas. You can also place a wet towel over their body and place them on a cooling mat.

Offer small amounts of water: Allow your dog to drink small sips of cool water to prevent dehydration.

Seek veterinary help: Even if your dog seems to recover, it’s essential to contact your Vet for further guidance.

Pet Stop is a local pet shop serving South Lincolnshire and North Cambridgeshire towns and villages with the store located in Market Deeping. The team have a wealth of pet care knowledge and are familiar with all cooling products suitable for your pets. Please visit our cooling products page and pop in to the store to speak to a member of out team for advice.