Dogs heat stroke- do's and don't!!

Hot weather spells trouble for dogs. Because they can’t release heat by sweating the way humans do, heat and humidity can raise canine body temperatures to dangerous levels. Heat stroke kills, and heat stress (a less severe condition) can take a serious toll on a dog’s health. Unfortunately, heat-related problems are among the most common summer canine ailments. Prolonged periods of high temperatures, such as we are having now in India during May and June, can be life threatening to people and to dogs. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

The dog’s body is built to preserve heat which is great in the winter, but they are susceptible to overheating in the summer. They have sweat glands only in their noses and the pads of their feet

Dogs that are normally clipped should be given summer haircuts, but don’t shave dogs with double coats (German Shepherds, Huskies, Collies, Samoyeds). Their fur provides protection from the heat. Shaving them can actually cause heat stroke.

Temperatures that are not uncomfortable for humans can be life threatening to a dog. Short nosed breeds, pugs and bulldogs, are particularly vulnerable to heat. An overheated dog can suffer brain and organ damage in 15 minutes.

The symptoms of heat stress include profuse panting, salivation, an anxious expression, staring without seeing, failing to respond to commands, skin that is warm and dry, fever, rapid pulse, fatigue or exhaustion, muscular weakness, and physical collapse.

Symptoms of heat stroke

The symptoms of heat stroke or heat prostration can include a warm nose and foot pads, glazed eyes, heavy panting, rapid pulse, a dark red tongue, fever, dizziness, vomiting or diarrhea, immobility, and unconsciousness. Brain damage occurs when the body’s temperature reaches 106o to 107 degree F. A dog’s normal temperature is 100.5 to 101.5 F

If your dog experiences any of the above symptoms, provide immediate first aid. Your rapid response may save your dog’s life.

Reduce your dog’s temperature by moving her into shade and immersing her gradually into cool water, such as in a stream, pond, fountain, horse trough, bath tub, or wading pool. Otherwise, wet the dog thoroughly, pouring a continuous stream of cool water over her body, beginning with the head and extremities, from a hose, watering can, bottle, or pan. If possible, apply ice packs to her head and neck. Apply wet towels to her abdomen, groin, legs, head, and neck.

If you can, take your dog’s temperature and continue applying cool wet towels until it returns to normal. As soon as possible, take your dog to a veterinary clinic. Even if she seems to have recovered, her body temperature could increase again; heat stress always carries a risk of brain damage; and depending on the dog’s age, physical condition, and the amount of time spent with an elevated temperature, complications can occur.