The dangers of heat stroke
Summer is a fun time for all but the heat can be lethal to our pets. Every year, a number of Totally Vets' clients lose their dogs to heat stroke. We really hope that knowing how to avoid heat stroke and being more aware of the risk factors and warning signs will help prevent unnecessary deaths.
In order to cool down, overheated humans sweat, which cools the skin surface through evaporation. Dogs and cats cannot sweat like we do and only have two options for cooling down: the first is to change their behaviour or environment by choosing to go to a cool, shady area and drinking cold water - something they can't always do when we exercise them in the heat of the day or if they are stuck in a car. The second option is panting. This movement of air over the moist tongue increases evaporative cooling. Unfortunately, panting also generates some heat due to the muscle activity involved. This means that when you leave an animal in an enclosed space such as a car, even if the vehicle is in the shade and even if the outside temperature is cool, the temperature and humidity build up very quickly once panting begins. The animal will struggle to get rid of the excess heat quickly enough and its body temperature will start to rise above the normal 39oC, often in a matter of minutes.
This is called heat stroke and can be life-threatening. Breathing will become rapid, frantic and noisy. Tongue and mucus membranes will become bright red, the saliva thick, and vomiting may occur. Animals with heat stroke tend to walk very slowly with a panicked expression and be unaware of their environment. Once the body temperature exceeds 42oC, damage can occur to the kidneys, liver, gastrointestinal tract, heart and brain. If left unchecked, your pet will become progressively weaker, go into a coma and die.
There are also a number of predisposing factors: big dogs (St Bernard), dogs with flat faces (Boxer, Pug), overweight, older, dehydrated or anxious pets are all more likely to develop heat stroke. Remember that even relatively cool areas can be dangerous if the animal is unable to access cold water.
If you suspect heat stroke, ring us to let us know you are coming, so that treatment can be started more quickly. To help, you can hose down your dog with cool water (not cold). Let the water run continuously in the groin area as there are large numbers of blood vessels there which will allow for more rapid cooling of the blood. Do not cover your pet with a wet towel as this will limit the evaporation. Your vet will perform a thorough check and start any necessary treatment.
The most important message is this: heat stroke is usually avoidable. Do not leave your pets in an enclosed area for any length of time. Do not exercise your pet during the hottest part of the day. Ensure there is access to shade and lots of fresh water, both before and after activity.
.
