Heat Stress in Dogs
“Heat Stress” is when your dog’s body temperature becomes too high. A dog’s main method of temperature regulation is panting, but sometimes this is not enough to prevent overheating. Heat stress can have negative, and potentially very serious, consequences.
CAUSES OF HEAT STRESS
Outside without access to shade or water, exercise in a hot environment, leaving your dog in the vehicle
IS MY DOG AT RISK?
Any dog can suffer from heat stress. However, particular risk factors include: Very young or old dogs, Long or thick coats, Overweight, Brachycephalic breeds (short flat faces)
SIGNS TO WATCH FOR
Early Signs – dog trying to regulate their body temperature: Excessive panting, seeking out shade, seeking out water, anxious
Late Signs – dog can’t regulate their temperature (i.e. heat stroke – this is an EMERGENCY): Vomiting or diarrhea, bright red or blue tongue and gums, severe lethargy or collapse, seizures
TREATMENT
Move your dog to a cool environment, offer them water, pour cool (not ice cold) water over their body
Late Signs: Seek veterinary care immediately!! Your vet will try to cool the dog in a controlled manner, and start supportive therapy. It is possible to have lasting organ damage once heat stroke has occurred.
Prevention is
key
DO NOT leave your dog in the vehicle unattended. Plan ahead!
Exercise your dog in the morning and evening to avoid peak heat. Have shade and water available to dogs outside. Try swimming! This is excellent exercise and helps your dog stay cool at the same time.
