Facts About Heatstroke

Heatstroke, or hyperthermia, is a serious and life threatening condition that is seen most often during the hot summer months. Heatstroke develops when the body is exposed to excessive temperatures and is unable to cool itself through its normal mechanisms such as panting. As the body temperature increases, the heart and blood vascular systems begin to respond. As the temperature continues to rise even higher (106-109 degrees Fahrenheit), this response actually reduces the ability of the body to cool itself. As a result, heatstroke occurs.

There are two forms of heatstroke.

Classic Heatstroke. Classic heatstroke develops when dogs are confined within an overheated enclosure. The most common, and preventable, cause of classic heatstroke occurs when a dog is left inside a vehicle on a hot day.
Exertional Heatstroke. Exertional heatstroke is associated with exercise during hot days. Exertional heatstroke occurs most commonly in dogs that are overweight, older in age or in the brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, etc.).

The best cure for heatstroke is to prevent it in the first place.

NEVER leave any pet in an enclosed vehicle when the outside temperature is warm.
Always provide plenty of clean water for your pet when exercising or playing during periods of warm weather.
Be aware that older and heavier dogs including all the brachycephalic breeds have difficulty in cooling themselves through normal mechanisms.

Be aware of the symptoms of heatstroke and take the following action when you suspect your pet may be affected.

Symptoms of heatstroke include, but are not limited to:

Reluctance to move or inability to get up.
Extremely fast panting.
Very fast heart rate and pale gums.
In extreme cases, the pet may collapse and lose consciousness.

Any pet suspected of having heatstroke MUST be taken to a veterinarian immediately. Treatment may be started prior to transport to the veterinarian if the hospital is further than a few minutes away. Cool water from a hose or careful immersion in a tub of water is the best way to begin immediate cooling. If using a hose, direct the stream onto the inner thighs, tummy and armpits. You may also soak the torso but do not spray onto the head. If placing the pet into a tub of water be careful to not immerse the head and do not allow the pet to become over excited or stressed. Once wetted with cool water, transport the pet as quickly as safely possible to the veterinarian.

REMEMBER that any pet suspected of having heatstroke MUST be taken to a veterinarian immediately.