How to Avoid Heatstroke in Dogs

Dogs don’t have sweat glands like a human so they pant to make the body cool during summer. But when the body temperature is higher than the usual temperature, and the dog can no longer sustain the high temperature, it gets a ‘heatstroke’.

Throughout the warmer months, there is an increase in Heatstroke in dogs. Leaving pets in a hot environment causes Heatstroke. One of the most common reasons for heatstroke in pets is leaving them in places that are too warm, a parked car or a recreational vehicle (RV), forgetting to provide adequate water, ignoring their signs of heat stress, etc.,

Some fidos are more prone to heat attacks than other dogs. Dogs which have thick fur, short noses, or pets suffering from medical conditions are predisposed to Heatstroke.

What is Heat Stress?

Hyperthermia is the term used to describe heat elevation in a body. Three types of hyperthermia are Heat stress, Heat Exhaustion, and Heatstroke. The terms are interchangeably used, yet their conditions differ according to severity.

Heat stress is a mild heat-related illness. At this stage, the dog shows signs like increased thirst and panting. If the condition prevails for long, it will progress to heat exhaustion. This gradually transforms into Heatstroke.

Dog Heatstroke – A Complete Guide for Pet Parents

5 ways to protect your pets from Heatstroke

1) Water

Water consumption is essential for us as humans, and the same is true for our pets. You must be sure that you brought a sufficient amount of water (at least 2 liters) for your pets, anytime you take your four-legged friend out.

2) Never leave pets unattended

You must never leave your pets unattended for any amount of time in a vehicle that is not properly equipped to keep the temperature cool. Regular A/C in a car or leaving the windows down may not be sufficient to keep your pet comfortable and safe and cool. The temperature in a car/RV can rise rapidly in just 10 minutes.

3) Keep them in shady spots

When you have to leave your pet outside or you go to places where pets are not allowed, leave them in a place where you have a lot of tree shade for the pet to play with but not in the parked car.

4) Small Workout Sessions

Every pet skips the workout sessions during winter because of snowfall and ice. During summer, pets have plenty of time and places to have fun and do exercise. Take them to a nearby park for not more than 30 minutes a day. Exercising along with your pet is also a great idea! Pets love to work out (indoors or outdoors) along with their owners because they can spend time with their loved ones.

5) Monitor temperature

It’s crucial to check the ambient temperature of your pet while you’re away, whether in your house, in your backyard, at a park, in a closed room, or in a car or RV. You need to monitor your pet’s condition when you’re away using a system that monitors temperature continuously and alerts you in case it goes too high thus Keeping your pet comfortable and safe.

Symptoms of heatstroke

If you notice any of these symptoms, your pet may be suffering from heatstroke and it is critical.

Body temperature reaches 104-110 degrees Fahrenheit.
Strong heartbeat
Rapid panting
Excessive thirst
Lethargy
Red gums
Glazed eyes
Vomiting
Unconsciousness
Diarrhea

Steps to consider when your dog is affected by heatstroke

Pets that are mildly affected can recover slowly with proper care but those affected extremely need veterinary advice. There are some first-aid steps you should follow until your pet can be seen by a vet.

Give water with some ice cubes. Measure the dog’s temperature events that are mildly affected can recover slowly with proper care but those who are affected extremely need veterinary advice. There are some first-aid steps you should follow until your pet can be seen by a vet.

Give water with some ice cubes. Measure the dog’s temperature every five minutes, with continuous water-cooling until it drops below 103°F (39.4°C).
Bring down the heat by shifting the pet to a cool location. Take the pet immediately to the vet.