Dog Days of Summer?!!!

Whoever first penned that phrase was completely wrong! Summer days in which the temperatures soar well past the 80's into the 90's and beyond are a dogs number one enemy! A car can reach over 120 on an 80 day! This is enough to injure or even kill your dog! Heat stroke kills more dogs each year than is necessary. Educate yourself and your dog will thank you!


What is Heat Stroke?

Heat stroke or hyperthermia is when the core body temperature rises faster than the normal cooling process occurs to dissipate the body's heat. A dog's normal temperature is 101.5 – 102.2, taken rectally. A body temperature of about 104 degrees or higher could indicate heat stroke. At high temperatures, the cells in the body begin to break down. At sustained body temperatures of 105 – 109 degrees, organs may be permanently damaged and death can occur.

Dogs do not sweat; they cool themselves by evaporation through panting.

Dogs most at risk for heat stroke are:
Young puppies or older dogs
Overweight dogs
Dogs with illnesses
Dogs with dehydration
Dogs with short nasal passages
Dogs overexerted by exercise
Dogs left in parked cars on warm, hot or sunny days

What are the signs of Heat Stroke?

Intense Rapid Panting
Agitation
Elevated heart rate
Weakness
Salivating
Staggering
Fainting
Difficulty in breathing
High Body Temperature
Bright Red Mucous Membranes, gums and eyes
Shock
Seizure, Coma


First Aid for Heat Stroke:

The immediate action is to reduce the dog's temperature. This may be done by placing the dog in a tub of cool (not COLD) water, sponging the dog with cool water or applying wet sheeting or towels to the dog's body. Place a fan directly in front of the dog. Ice packs, wrapped in a towel can also be applied. Another method is an isopropyl alcohol bath. The alcohol will evaporate and this will help cool the dog. The areas to target for cooling are the head, neck, armpits, abdomen and feet. You want to try and get the temperature down to 103 degrees within 10 minutes. However, overcooling is not advised. And you need to transport your dog to a Veterinary Clinic as soon as possible. You can continue cooling methods on your way to medical help.

Prevention of Heat Stroke:

Never leave your dog in a parked car, even with the windows cracked.

Dogs should avoid strenuous exercise on hot days, try going out in the early morning or evening.

Always provide a comfortable environment for your dogs, with plenty of fresh water. Leave the air conditioner on or ceiling fan.

Limit outside exposure during the peak daytime hours of 11AM – 3PM on hot days.

If you travel to warmer climates with your dog, allow them time to acclimate to hotter temperatures.

If you see an animal in a car exhibiting any signs of Heat Stroke or stress, call the Police immediately.

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