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Heatstroke In Dogs: A Deadly Condition
Particular conditions can occur that can literally make any dog likely to develop heat stroke or stress. The first condition is a dog that is obese or overweight, since they will have more difficulty in breathing to cool themselves off, plus the body in general is under more strain. The second condition is a dog that is restricted in their movement that cannot get to a shady or cool area and is forced to stay in the direct sunlight. This can occur in a very short period of time and most people know how deadly it can be to leave your dog in the car over the summer months. Kennels and tying a dog up in the sun can also cause the same risk of heatstroke. The other major cause of heatstroke is within the specific breed itself. Dogs like Pugs, Boxers, Shih Tzu, and Pomeranians with the pushed in face are much more susceptible to heatstroke than dogs with long muzzles. This is simply because the brachycephalic (short nosed) dogs don't have the long nasal passage to help cool the air, plus they are also more likely to have respiratory problems or restrictions even before they start to overheat.
The first signs of heatstroke in any type of dog are usually rapid, shallow panting, a dry tongue, very red tissues along the gum line, a dazed and somewhat disoriented look, rapid heart beat and a extremely hot, dry feel to the skin. If the dog is not immediately removed to a cooler location and rehydrated, the resulting symptoms will get much more severe including seizures, staggering, coma and then death. In some cases the dog's temperature may go up over 106° and 110°F (41.1 °-43.3 °C), with the safe temperature closer to 103 °F (39.4 °C). The first step is to immediately get the dog as cool and possible and, at the same time, get in contact with a vet.
At the very least the dog has to be taken out of the direct sun. An air-conditioned room is the very best option; however just getting them into the shade is often the most practical strategy if you are outdoors. If possible submerge the dog's whole body in water or even run the hose over them, moving their legs to stimulate blood movement and cooling of the body core. If the dog is unresponsive and somewhat dazed, hold their head out of the water to prevent drowning if the dog becomes unconscious. If you can, take the dog's temperature every 10 minutes and keep a record of how quickly the body temperature returns to normal. Even if the dog seems to recover relatively quickly, get the pet into a vet immediately as there are some neurological and health issues that need to be checked and treated after heatstroke.
Article by Ashley Gerald of Oh My Dog Supplies, check for current specials on elevated dog bowls online
