Signs/Symptoms:
- Rapid panting
- Excess saliva
- Elevated temperature (>104F)
- Dehydration
- Depression
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Vomiting & Diarrhea
- Shock
- Coma
What you should do:
Remove the dog from the hot area immediately. Prior to taking him to your veterinarian, lower his temperature by wetting him thoroughly with cool water (for very small dogs, use lukewarm water), then increase air movement around him with a fan. The rectal temperature should be checked every 5 minutes. Once the body temperature is 103F, the cooling measures should be stopped and the dog should be dried thoroughly and covered so he does not continue to lose heat. Even if the dog appears to be recovering, take him to your veterinarian as soon as possible. He should still be examined since he may be dehydrated or have other complications.
Allow free access to water or a childrens' rehydrating solution if the dog can drink on his own. Do not try to force-feed cold water; the dog may inhale it or choke.
What your veterinarian will do:
Your veterinarian will lower your dog's body temperature to a safe range (if you have not already) and continually monitor his temperature. Your dog will be given fluids, and possibly oxygen. He will be monitored for shock, respiratory distress, kidney failure, heart abnormalities, and other complications, and treated accordingly. Blood samples will be taken before and during treatment.
Aftercare:
Dogs with moderate heatstroke often recover without complicating health problems. Severe heatstroke can cause organ damage that might need ongoing care such as a special prescription diet prescribed by your veterinarian. Dogs who suffer from heatstroke once increase their risk for getting it again and steps must be taken to prevent it on hot, humid days.
Prevention:
Any pet that cannot cool himself off is at risk for heatstroke. Following these guidelines can help prevent serious problems.
- Keep pets with predisposing conditions cool and in the shade...such as pets with: heart disease, obesity, older age, brachycephalic breeds, breeds with thick hair coats, or pets with breathing problems. Even normal activity for these pets can be harmful.
- Provide access to water at all times!
- Do not leave your pet in a hot parked car - even if you're in the shade or will only be gone a short time! The temperature inside a parked car can quickly reach up to 140F.
- Make sure outside dogs have access to shade.
- On a hot day, restrict exercise and don't take your dog jogging with you.
- Do not muzzle your dog.
- Avoid places like the beach and especially concrete or asphalt areas where heat is reflected and there is no access to shade.
- Wetting down your dog with cool water or allowing him to swim can help maintain a normal body temperature.
- Move your dog to a cool area of the house. To provide a cooler environment, freeze water in soda bottles, or place ice and small amount of water in several resealable food storage bags, then wrap them in a towel or sock. Place them on the floor for your dog to lay on.
