Heatstroke in dogs

With summer in full swing and temperatures rising, we need to take extra care with our canine companions. Heatstroke is a real problem in the hotter months, and it can even be fatal in some cases. We are going to explain what heatstroke is, the signs to look out for and how you can stop it from happening in the first place.

What is heatstroke?

Heatstroke occurs when a dog overheats and their normal cooling mechanisms are unable to bring their body temperature back down again. A normal dog’s body temperature should be between 38 and 39°C, but in heatstroke their body temperature creeps  . This can lead to severe problems including seizures, organ damage, internal bleeding, collapse, and death. The longer your dog’s temperature is elevated, the more at risk they are from irreversible damage. Therefore, the faster treatment is implemented the better the chance that your dog will have of a successful recovery.

What dogs are most at risk from heatstroke?

Any dog can succumb to the effects of warm environmental temperatures, but some are others. These animals can struggle at what we might consider to be fairly moderate temperatures. Breeds and types include:

  • Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds such as Bulldogs and Pugs  – their impaired respiratory tract means they are unable to cool themselves as effectively as other breeds can when panting.
  • Large or giant breeds of dog.
  • Overweight dogs – carrying excess weight and a lack of fitness can leave these dogs more susceptible.
  • Dogs with heavy or thick fur coats.
  • Dogs that are hyperexcitable or very active – these animals can be hard to keep calm during warm weather and will still overexert themselves if they have an opportunity to do so.

What are the symptoms of heatstroke in dogs?

The symptoms of heatstroke displayed will depend on how severely your dog is affected. The following lists some of the classic symptoms, from mild signs through to what we can see in more advanced cases:

  • Panting
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Lethargy
  • Drooling or foaming at the mouth
  • Vomiting and/or diarrhoea
  • A change in gum colour (bright red or pale, instead of normal pink)
  • Shaking
  • Collapse or weakness
  • Disorientation
  • Seizures
  • Blood in vomit or diarrhoea
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Death

What should I do if I think my dog is suffering from heatstroke?

If your dog could be suffering from heatstroke, call us immediately. We will need to see your dog urgently, but we usually advise that you take the time to do some initial cooling. Doing this before you drive them to us can help to save your dog’s life.

So, get your dog out of direct sunlight immediately, ideally place them somewhere shady and with a breeze (an electric fan can help). If possible, record their rectal temperature. Soak your dog in cool water, wetting the fur thoroughly without submerging their head. Do not cover your dog with wet towels. These can be quickly warmed by your dog’s body temperature and can actually trap heat by preventing evaporation from your dog’s skin from occurring.

Dogs that have been actively cooled before being brought in have a lower mortality rate than those not cooled before being transported.

Once you arrive at the hospital, we can continue these cooling mechanisms as well supporting your pet in other ways. The exact treatment will depend on the severity of your dog’s condition. Intravenous fluids may be required as well as oxygen therapy and intensive nursing. Blood samples can give us more information and allow us to assess your pet for organ damage. Medications to reduce seizure activity and vomiting may need to be administered.

Our vet team will keep you updated on your pet’s progress, but this condition can be fatal despite everyone’s best efforts. It is therefore always best to take steps to avoid it from happening in the first place.

How can I prevent heatstroke from occurring?

Here are our top tips to avoid heatstroke from occurring:

  • In periods of warm weather, stick to the cooler parts of the day when exercising your pet (early mornings and evenings). On particularly hot days it might be best to best to skip walking altogether if you are unable to take them out at these cooler times.
  • Think about the type of exercise you are doing with your pet on warm days. A gentle amble in shaded woodland will be far better than jogging or continuous ball chasing in a sunny field. If your dog enjoys paddling or swimming while out on a walk, this can help to keep them cool, but still make sure they are not over-exerting themselves.
  • Keep your pet well hydrated. Drinking water should always be available, so consider taking a travel bottle and bowl for your dog if you are out walking.
  • Take extra care with susceptible dogs like brachycephalics or those that are overweight. They could overheat at lower temperatures than other dogs might.
  • Never leave your dog in a stationary car in warm weather. Even if the windows are down, the temperature and humidity levels rise quickly inside a parked car. Conservatories and sunrooms at home could also become very warm in the summer months.
  • Offer your dog a paddling pool in the garden or regularly pour cold water over their fur to keep them cool on hot days. Always ensure they have access to shade.
  • Brush your dog regularly to remove loose fur from their coat and consider having their fur clipped shorter if they have a thick coat.
  • Use interactive toys and puzzle feeders, as well as practicing a few training commands to keep your dog mentally stimulated while staying cool indoors during hot periods.
  • Avoid any unnecessary travelling with your pet on hot days and keep your dog at home. We will support you if you need to rearrange a routine appointment for your dog during a hot weather spell.

If you remember nothing else, remember this – no dog has died from missing a walk or two, whereas they could if you exercise them during hot weather.

Summary

Heatstroke is a serious and often fatal condition that can be prevented by taking sensible precautions. During hot weather, you must plan your pet’s exercise carefully and take extra precautions with susceptible dogs. Don’t take any risks. If you think the weather might be a bit too warm for your dog, then leave them in a cool room at home and take them out later.

If you are concerned that your pet is showing signs of heatstroke, call us immediately on 0151 428 8600

When is heatstroke most common in dogs?

Heatstroke is most common during the summer months of June, July and August, but it can occur at any time of the year. At-risk dogs are also more likely than other dogs to suffer from heatstroke, so take extra care with these dogs during any period of warm weather.

Is heatstroke a life-threatening condition?

Yes, heatstroke can be fatal. If you suspect your dog may be suffering, take immediate action. Call us straight away for help and take steps to cool your dog down, including soaking them in cool water and moving them somewhere shady.

What causes heatstroke in dogs?

High environmental temperatures and humidity levels increase the risk of heatstroke, as does overexercising and lack of access to shade and water. Other factors such as underlying health conditions, breed and weight can also contribute to the likelihood of it occurring.