Summer heat: Learn how to protect your dog from heatstroke

The summer is here, and that means that it’s hot outside. What does that mean for your pup? Find out how heatstroke can be a serious problem for doggies that are exposed to too much heat.

Heatstroke occurs when your dog gets too hot. Their internal temperature elevates above normal, which can mean bad news. While heatstroke most commonly occurs in the summer because of the hot weather, dogs can get heatstroke any time during the year.

If not immediately treated, this condition can become life-threatening.

When playing with your dog outside, it is important that you always have a source of water with you and that there is a place where it can cool off nearby.

As summer approaches, it is essential to be mindful of how the heat can affect your dog. You might be able to tolerate the scorching rays of the summer sun, but your dog won’t.

What is heatstroke?

Heatstroke is a common term for when a dog becomes excessively hyperthermic. Anything above a dog’s normal temperature (101.5°F) is considered hyperthermic. If its internal temperature rises above 105°F, the dog will suffer from heatstroke.

Marvelous Dogs say canines can become hyperthermic for many reasons, such as disease, exercise, and environmental temperature. When dogs get heatstroke, their hyperthermia is most commonly associated with prolonged or excessive exercise, restricted access to water and shade, leaving the dog in a car without good ventilation, and environmental heat.

There are only two ways dogs can remove heat from their bodies: panting and vasodilation of blood vessels. Since dogs cannot sweat like humans, except at their paw pads (which isn’t enough), they can only remove heat through moisture by panting.

When dogs pant, they expel liquid carrying heat from their tongues, nasal passages, and lungs. Blood vessel vasodilation also helps dogs cool down, though panting is the primary way. When blood vessels expand, especially in the ears and face, they bring more overheated blood near the skin’s surface, where it can cool off.

Heatstroke occurs when the dog’s two mechanisms for cooling down are overwhelmed. Since the internal temperature rises so rapidly in dogs—as little as just minutes—they cannot remove the heat fast enough. This condition can be life-threatening if not immediately treated. Multiple organ failure occurs when the internal temperature reaches 107°F-109°F, which can lead to death.

What are the early warning signs?

Heatstroke can be a life-threatening condition for dogs, so it’s important to recognize the signs and respond promptly.

Though heatstroke has a rapid onset, the first signs are easy to catch. The problem is that people often don’t recognize them for what they are.

Heatstroke can be a life-threatening condition for dogs, so it’s important to recognize the signs and respond promptly. Here are some tips for recognizing heatstroke in dogs:

Early warning signs include:

• Heavy or excessive panting
• Rapid breathing
• Difficulty breathing
• Excessive drooling
• Tongue hanging out
• Dry mucous membranes (dehydration)
• Bright red gums and tongue
• Hot skin
• Rapid heart rate
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Weakness or collapse

Continued exposure to heat or over-exercising will lead to symptoms such as:

• Pale mucous membranes with white or blue gums (severe dehydration)
• Very rapid heart rate
• Arrhythmia
• Drop in blood pressure
• Disorientation
• Hyperventilation
• Dilated pupils
• Muscle tremors
• Lethargy
• Collapsing

When a dog reaches the point where they demonstrate these later signs of heatstroke, they are in shock and need immediate medical attention.

How to prevent heatstroke

When it comes to heatstroke, prevention and recognizing the early signs are key.

Don’t spend too long outside on a hot day or let your dog exercise excessively for a long time. Try taking out your dog at cooler times of the day, like in the morning and evening.

A good way to measure how hot it is outside is by touching the pavement with your hand. It is scorching if you can barely hold your hand there for longer than five seconds. (Plus, if the pavement is too hot for you, it is too hot for your dog’s paws and could burn them.)

Don’t let your dog get to the point where it looks sick. If you suspect that your dog is becoming too hot, stop whatever activity you are doing with it, remove it from the hot area, find shade, and get it some water to drink.

You don’t want to see the later signs of heatstroke because the consequences might be irreversible.

Factors that influence heat stroke

Several factors contribute to heatstroke. According to the AKC, these include:

• Breed
• Age
• Physical fitness
• Weight
• Medical disorders
• Environment
• Water
• Acclimation

Which dog breeds are most likely to suffer heatstroke?

All dogs are susceptible to heatstroke, but some are more likely to suffer from it than others. All brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced) , such as the English Bulldog, French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, and Pug, are at a higher risk of developing heatstroke because they have trouble breathing and cannot efficiently pant.

Longhaired breeds like the Golden Retriever, Siberian Husky, and Chow Chow are also prone to heatstroke.

While it might be tempting to shave their fur to help prevent heatstroke, this actually increases the likelihood of getting heatstroke. Their double-layered fur is designed to help protect them from the heat because the undercoat keeps them insulated. Their coat will naturally try to keep them cooler in the summer by shedding in the spring.

There are other reasons why some breeds are at higher risk for heatstroke than others. Obesity can play a factor, and dogs that are not very energetic, like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Shih Tzu, and Pekingese, are more likely to get heatstroke on a hot day, not just because of their long hair or short snout, but also because they are overweight.

Golden Retrievers and Labradors are prone to developing tracheal collapse or laryngeal paralysis, which makes it hard for them to breathe because they can’t properly open and close their larynx. Such a condition can also increase their risk of heatstroke.

How Is heatstroke treated in dogs?

Remember that heatstroke can be prevented by providing access to shade and water, and by avoiding strenuous exercise in hot weather.

Treatment involves lowering the dog’s internal temperature in the early stages of heatstroke.

Good ways to cool off your dog and lower your dog’s body temperature are to give it water to drink, spray it with cool water, and use a fan.

Avoid splashing your dog with ice-cold water or immediately putting it in an air-conditioned room, as drastic temperature changes can make things worse. The condition could last at most for an hour in a moderate case of heat stroke.

Help your dog cool off by:

• Moving the dog to a cool, shaded area
• Offering small amounts of water to drink
• Using cool (not cold) water to wet the dog’s fur and skin
• Placing cool wet towels on your dog
• Using a fan or air conditioning to aid in cooling
• Contact your veterinarian immediately for further guidance

Use a thermometer if you have one to check your dog’s temperature. If it is above 105°F even after trying to cool down your dog, then consider the situation an emergency.

Take your dog to the veterinarian right away. Dogs in the critical stages of heatstroke will require fluids, medication, support, and oxygen. Depending on the severity of the heatstroke, they can remain hospitalized for 24-72 hours.

Because the high temperatures can result in organ failure and complications might not arise immediately, it is important to follow up with your veterinarian to determine if treatment for other secondary heat-related illnesses or conditions is necessary.

What is a dog’s likely prognosis after heat stroke?

A dog’s prognosis can vary depending on how elevated its body temperature was, how long it was hyperthermic, and its body condition before the heatstroke.

Most dogs will completely recover to normal if the temperature isn’t extremely high and the hyperthermia doesn’t last for too long. If they suffered from a severe episode of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, then they could experience permanent organ damage.

Not all dogs die from heatstroke, but the secondary lasting effects induced by heatstroke could lead to the dog’s demise. Dogs that have experienced severe heatstroke also have a higher chance of heatstroke reoccurring because their thermoregulatory center could be damaged.

Keep your dog cool

To avoid putting your dog in danger, take steps to prevent heatstroke by keeping your dog cool.

• Make sure your dog always has access to fresh, cool water
• Avoid walking your dog during the hottest part of the day. Opt for early morning or evening walks when the temperature is lower.
• Provide access to shade, whether it’s a tree, umbrella, or a covered porch.
• Never leave your dog in a parked car, as temperatures can quickly become dangerously high.
• Use cooling mats or damp towels for your dog to lie on.
• Be mindful of hot pavement and surfaces that can burn your dog’s paws.
• Consider getting a kiddie pool or a sprinkler for your dog to play in and cool off.
• Some dogs may benefit from a summer haircut, but be cautious as some breeds’ coats act as insulation.
• Use pet-friendly sunscreens on dogs with thin fur or exposed skin to prevent sunburn.

Help your dog acclimate to warmer temperatures

Helping dogs acclimate to warmer temperatures is essential. Here are some tips to make this transition easier for your dog:

Gradual exposure

When the weather begins to warm up, gradually expose your dog to the increasing temperatures. This will give them time to adjust and prevent any sudden heat-related stress.

Provide shade and water

Ensure that your dog has access to shade to escape the direct sun and always has an adequate supply of fresh, cool water. This is crucial to prevent dehydration and overheating.

Limit exercise during peak heat

Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day. Instead, opt for walks and playtime during the cooler mornings or evenings.

Never leave your dog in a hot car

Even with the windows cracked, the interior of a car can heat up rapidly, potentially causing heatstroke and even death. It’s best to leave your dog at home if you have errands to run on warm days.

Monitor for signs of heat stress

Be aware of signs of heat stress in dogs, which can include excessive panting, drooling, rapid heartbeat, and weakness.

If you notice any of these symptoms, move your dog to a cooler area and seek veterinary attention if necessary.

By following these tips, you can help your dog adapt to warmer temperatures and ensure their safety and comfort during the summer months.

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

In the scorching heat of summer, it’s crucial to keep your dog well-hydrated to prevent dehydration and heat-related illnesses.

Here are some essential tips for keeping your dog hydrated during the summer heat:

Ensure access to fresh water

Always provide your dog with access to cool, fresh water. Change the water regularly to keep it clean and appealing.

Provide multiple water sources

Place multiple water bowls in different locations around your home and yard. This ensures that your dog can easily find water, regardless of where they are.

Bring portable water for outings

When taking your dog for walks or to the park, bring a portable water bowl and a supply of water to keep them hydrated while on the go.

Give your dog water-rich foods

Incorporate water-rich foods into your dog’s diet, such as wet food, raw fruits, and vegetables. These can contribute to their overall hydration.

Provide shade

When outdoors, ensure that your dog has access to shaded areas where they can cool down. Combine this with access to water to help them stay properly hydrated.

Use ice cubes

Adding a few ice cubes to your dog’s water bowl can make it more enticing for them to drink and also helps to keep the water cooler for a longer period.

By following these tips, you can help your dog stay adequately hydrated and healthy during the hot summer months.

Remember that proper hydration is vital for your dog’s overall well-being and comfort in the heat.

Final thoughts on preventing heatstroke

Summer is a great time to go out and enjoy outdoor activities. Often, you want to bring your dog along, too, because you don’t want to leave it behind and want it to have fun. Spending time with your dog outside and having fun with them is important for your bondage, but be mindful of how the weather might affect your dog.

If you’re feeling the heat, your dog is sure to feel it too. You might be able to tolerate it, but heatstroke can develop in just minutes for dogs.

Keep a close watch on your dog while you are outside to prevent them from going into heatstroke. It’ll avoid you a scare and keep your dog happy and healthy.

Protect your furry friend with our optimal dog health guide 🐾