Hot weather can be tough on our furry friends, and heatstroke is a serious risk. Knowing the signs and symptoms, and how to prevent and treat heatstroke, can help you keep your dog safe and healthy. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about heatstroke in dogs.
But first...storytime! I find that owners seem to know the least about heat. Which is always wildly surprising considering I've always lived in Texas. We always have 100+ degree weather in the summer and yet I still see some joker (if that's you, let's get you out of that category) walking their dog at 3pm... I generally say, you can walk when it's advisable to run your sprinklers. For non-homeowners that's around 6am-8am and 8pm or later. The idea is that your water will evaporate before it makes it into the ground. Let that sink in for a minute...it's SO hot, the water can't even EXIST.
So, this brings me to two horror stories that you really need to hear in order to comprehend why I am so worked up about this issue. The chances that your dog will survive a heat stroke was found to be 50% by one study.
The first story, is my own. I have truly learned every lesson the hard way, from experience. My last Boston Terrier (any short nosed dog is going to be in more danger of overheating) Trixie was hanging out on a gorgeous day (we get like 6 of them here). It was SO NICE, we had the door open...which is almost never a thing in TX due to our fickle weather. It was around 78 degrees and I was in the kitchen grabbing something to bring to the patio. Trixie walked in (don't worry the entirety is burnt into my memory like yesterday), not stumbling but criss crossing her legs like she was drunk almost. I had just watched this episode about antifreeze poisoning and it looked just like it! I freaked out, checked her gums, they were stark white and we FLEW to the ER. I ran in screaming "fix my baby I think she's dying". So...clearly it wasn't antifreeze because we didn't even have any of that. But it was - you guessed it - a heat stroke. She was OKAY, however if it had taken us any longer to get there (thank goodness for my ex-hub and driving quickly and safely), she would've surely died. Now, this only worked out because we were only around 8 minutes from the ER.
Next story...I was at another ER with a rescue parvo pup, bringing some hugs and homemade foods when a family was there. It was early, maybe 9am. I couldn't help but overhear and the tech told me that they had three Goldens. One was 9yrs, one was 4yrs and one was 6mos. They had gone for a walk around 8am, the temps were just mid 80's and all three collapsed. The horror that filled my face...but they're Goldens...they have SUCH THICK FUR. As it was at the time I was there, the youngest and middle one had died, and the eldest was hanging on by a thread. I cannot imagine living through that horrible experience and knowing that you had a hand in your dog's premature passing (of course not on purpose) is the worst feeling in the entire world. So THAT is why I am so so so passionate about educating owners on this danger.
Plus, as we will learn, anything over 80 is far too hot for ANY dog, for short snouts we want to stick to 75. I know that sounds overkill, but trust me...it's not. Now I'm not saying we don't get stuck in some pinches and we have to stick it out and make things work for a few minutes. It's happened to the best of us. Read the tips at the end to keep cool in a pinch.
Recognizing Heatstroke
First, let’s talk about how to recognize heatstroke. Here are the key signs and symptoms to watch out for:
- Excessive Panting: Rapid, heavy panting is a primary sign of overheating.
- Drooling: Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth.
- Red or Pale Gums: Check your dog’s gums; they might be bright red or very pale.
- Rapid Heartbeat: A fast or irregular heartbeat.
- Weakness or Collapse: Your dog may appear weak, uncoordinated, or may collapse.
- Vomiting or Diarrhea: These can also be signs of heatstroke.
- Seizures: In severe cases, your dog might have seizures.
Immediate Steps to Take
If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, act quickly:
- Move to a Cool Area: Get your dog out of the heat and into a cooler environment immediately.
- Hydrate: Offer small amounts of cool (not cold) water to drink. Do not force your dog to drink if they’re not interested.
- Cool Down: Use cool (not cold) water to wet your WHOLE dog’s body. Focus on areas with less fur, like the belly, paws, and armpits. You can also use wet towels or a fan to help cool them down. This will mimic the sweating process that they lack.
- Check Temperature: If possible, use a rectal thermometer to check your dog’s temperature. Normal dog temperature is between 101-102.5°F. If it’s above 104°F, it’s an emergency - go to the ER immediately!
- Call the Vet: Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Contact your vet or an emergency animal hospital immediately for further instructions. There is VERY LITTLE TIME when your dog is having a heat stroke. Do not delay in getting them help, seconds could mean life or death.
Preventing Heatstroke
Prevention is the best way to protect your dog from heatstroke. Here are some tips to keep your pup safe in hot weather:
- Provide Shade and Water: Always ensure your dog has access to shade and plenty of fresh water when outside.
- Avoid Peak Heat: Exercise your dog during the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late evening. In temperatures over 100 degrees, there is no safe time but night to take your dog for a walk for more than potty breaks.
- Never Leave in the Car: Never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a few minutes. Temperatures inside a car can rise quickly and become deadly.
- Watch for Signs: Be vigilant for early signs of overheating, especially if your dog is a brachycephalic breed (like Bulldogs or Pugs), elderly, or overweight.
- Cooling Products: Consider using cooling mats, vests, or fans to help keep your dog cool.
- DO NOT BE FOOLED: Your dog will do whatever you tell them to, even walk into their own death from a heatstroke. If your dog is panting heavily DO NOT encourage further exercise. I see this all the time and it is so dangerous. Never assume because it's "early in the morning" that it is cool enough for your dog. I've seen dogs die in 80 degree weather. They are wearing a full fur coat, no matter the length and lack the ability to sweat properly.
Final Thoughts
Heatstroke is a serious and potentially deadly condition, but is hands down the MOST preventable emergency situation. JUST STAY OUT OF THE HEAT! Luckily for our dogs, they are domesticated and get to live indoors! So do the right thing and know when to walk depending on where you live. Look for indoor activities to supplement long walks.
With the right knowledge and quick action, you can protect your dog from the dangers of overheating. Keep an eye on your furry friend during hot weather and always be prepared to take action if needed.
