July 2022’s heatwave is the hottest on record and could have fatal consequences for your dog if you don’t take action to keep them cool, shaded and hydrated.
Heatstroke is seriously dangerous for dogs. If your dog gets heatstroke, there is only a 20% chance they will recover. It’s that bad.
What is heatstroke and why is it so dangerous?
Heatstroke is where the body reaches a hyperthermic state, which is much easier for dogs to do than humans since they don’t regulate their body temperature as efficiently as us. They do not sweat (apart from minuscule amounts through their paws) and rely on panting to cool down.
Brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced dogs such as pugs, boxers, and bulldogs) as well as larger, older, obese and muzzled dogs are at much greater risk of heatstroke, and so they need even greater care and attention.
What are the symptoms of heatstroke?
Symptoms of heatstroke include:
- Elevated breathing rate / excessive panting
- Discoloured, sticky, bruised or dry gums
- Disorientation
- Seizures
- Lethargy / collapse
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Drooling
How to treat heatstroke in dogs
Heatstroke is a critical, medical emergency.
If you suspect your dog has heatstroke, you must cool your dog down rapidly and call a vet immediately.
DO:
- Make sure your dog is in a cool, shaded area
- Spray cold water all over them or immerse in cold water and immediately put a fan on them (this is called evaporative cooling and is the most effective way to cool your dog.)
- Make sure they have access to cool drinking water
DON’T
- Cover them in wet towels, this can trap the heat inside and worsen the condition
How to Avoid Heatstroke in dogs
As with anything, prevention is better than cure, so get yourself prepared for the heat and check out our blog: How to keep your dog cool this summer
For some general advice about safe temperatures, take a look at this blog: Dogs in the heat: How hot is too hot?
Add a comment