Dogs are much more susceptible to heat stroke or hyperthermia than humans. And some breeds  are more susceptible than others such as short nosed breeds like pugs, boxers and bulldogs. Dogs can only sweat through their paws and and by panting which is not very efficient.  So during hot weather we need to take precautions and monitor our dogs for the effects that heat can have on them. Dogs with moderate heat stroke can recover quickly without complication or lasting medical effects but severe heat stroke can cause organ damage and ongoing medical problems for the life of the dog and in severe cases even death.

 

• Leaving your dog in a parked car. Temperatures even on a 70 degree day can reach above 100 degrees in minutes even if your car is parked in the shade.
• Exercising in hot weather.  This is especially true with older dogs, dogs that are over weight or dogs with medical problems.
• Dogs left outside without shade or proper access to water.

• Rapid Panting and Drooling
• Bright Red Tongue
• Red and Pale Gums
• Thick Sticky Saliva
• Hyper Ventilation (gasping for air)
• Glossy Eyes
• Fever (103 +)
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Diarrhea
• Collapse

• Remove dog from hot area
• Begin immediately to cool the dog by wetting him with cool water especially the feet. You can use wet towels, rags, immersing him in water like the sink or bath tub, or use a water hose. Try to get a rectal temperature so you can gauge when to stop the cooling process. Stop cooling when you reach 103 degrees.
• DO NOT USE ICE or ICE COLD WATER.  This can be dangerous by cooling the dog too quickly and can cause other life threatening conditions.
• Move air around the dog, like a fan or A/C.
• Immediately call your vet or emergency to get advice and once you have reached a temperature of 103 degrees take him immediately in for treatment.