As the hot weather continues this summer, people should take care of their animal friends. Dogs can also be affected by high temperatures. However, some dogs are more susceptible to its effects than others. Knowing the symptoms of heatstroke and stroke in dogs can help you keep your furry friend safe during hot weather.
According to a 2017 article published in the journal Temperature, heat stroke is a medical condition caused by “an inability to dissipate stored heat during exposure to hot environments or during strenuous physical activity during heat stress.” Heatstroke can be fatal to dogs and people.
Maria Verbrugge, clinical instructor of veterinary medicine at the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine in Madison, says a dog’s typical body temperature is about 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit. When your body temperature goes above 102.5 degrees, it becomes too hot, she said. “104 degrees is the danger zone.”
By paying attention to your feelings, you can understand how your dog is feeling. “If people feel uncomfortable outside, dogs may start to feel uncomfortable too,” she said.
The dog’s breed will also determine how high temperatures will affect your pup. For example, Wellbrugg said dogs with thick coats are better suited to cold weather than warm weather. In summer they can be prone to overheating quickly. Dogs with brachycephalic or flat faces also have difficulty in hot weather. Their facial bones and snout are shorter, their nostrils are relatively narrow, and their airways are smaller, making it harder for them to breathe, which is their main way of losing heat.
Young, active dogs are also at risk for heatstroke due to overexertion. A puppy having a great time playing with a ball may not notice fatigue or discomfort, so it’s up to the pet owner to provide plenty of water and decide when it’s time to rest in the shade.
It is also important to ensure that your dog’s room temperature is comfortable. If you leave your dog at home in hot weather, Verbrugge recommends setting the thermostat or air conditioner to a setting similar to what it would be if you were at home. It is also important to ensure that your dog always has access to fresh water at home.
Overheating is not necessarily life-threatening. The feeling of heat while walking can be relieved by using air conditioning and water. But heat stroke can change the function of your organs. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause damage to the brain, liver and gastrointestinal tract.
Verbrugge also provides some signs that will alert you if your dog is suffering from heatstroke. For example, although shortness of breath is normal, a dog suffering from heatstroke may continue to pant even after a period of rest. Difficulty breathing can cause limb weakness, leading to collapse. If your dog has passed out, it’s time to take him to the vet.
Summer days are pleasant, but excessively hot weather puts everyone at risk. Knowing the signs of heat stroke and how to intervene can help prevent permanent damage and reduce your risk.
Post time: Jul-15-2024