With the temperatures soaring, pet parents are most concerned about heatstroke and heat stress in pets. Knowing the symptoms, causes, prevention, and treatment options is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of your canine companion.

Heatstroke in dogs can be severe and deadly. According to some medical studies, only about half of the dogs that suffer from heatstroke survive.

Heat stress occurs when your pet’s body temperature reaches an extremely high level due to scorching external temperatures. Dogs cannot sweat to cool themselves, unlike humans. Instead, they cool themselves by panting, which causes moisture to evaporate from their mouths and nostrils. In India, dogs are at a higher risk of heatstroke because of the high temperature and high humidity.

What is Heatstroke in Pets?

It is one of the most severe types of hyperthermia, which poses a serious threat to your pet. It is a medical disorder in which your pet’s body temperature goes way beyond the normal 106°F (41°C) without any preceding signs of illness, typically caused by sun exposure or other environmental factors.

In severe cases, a dog’s temperature can increase to between 107°F and 109°F (41.7 °C and 42.7 °C), causing irreversible damage to vital organs, including the central nervous system, heart, liver, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, and coagulation system.

On hot and humid days, if dogs don’t have access to water, shade, or rest, heatstroke can swiftly overwhelm the body’s defences, potentially leading to death. If you suspect that your pet is suffering from heatstroke, then take him to the vet immediately. Don’t wait for the symptoms to subside, as any delay in treatment may prove to be fatal.

When Heat Turns Dangerous – Signs to Look Out For

Keep an eye out for these common symptoms of heat stress and heatstroke in pets –

• Excessive panting and drooling
• Unresponsiveness
• Dry and reddened gums/mucous membranes
• Rapid heart rate
• Dehydration
• High temperature (104°F and above)
• Vomiting and diarrhoea
• Disorientation
• Weakness or lethargy
• Seizures

Breeds More Likely to Get Heatstroke

Certain breeds, particularly those with flat faces (brachycephalic breeds), such as Pugs, Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, Boxers, and Mastiffs, are more susceptible to heatstroke because they frequently struggle to regulate their body temperature adequately.

Old pets, especially those who are overweight or struggling with any chronic condition, are also at a greater risk.

To reduce the risk of heatstroke, keep your pet indoors in cool conditions all day. Avoid taking him for walks during peak heat hours; instead, go for walks early in the morning or late in the evening, after sunrise or before sunset.

The Heat Trap – What Puts Your Pet at Risk

If the temperature is hot for you, it will be significantly hotter for your furry friend. The following two are the most common conditions that may lead to heat stress in pets

• Leaving your pet in a car – According to a recent study, the temperature inside a car can rise by about 5 degrees Celsius every hour. Even if the outside temperature is 27°C, the interior of a car can quickly rise to 32°C in an hour. Never leave your pet inside a car, even if the windows are open or the weather seems to be pleasant.
• Exercising your pet on hot and humid days – Exercising your pet during peak heat hours makes them prone to heat stress. It is best to engage in outdoor activities early in the morning or late at night when temperatures are lower. Additionally, make sure your pet has access to plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated.

Treatment for Heatstroke in Dogs

The veterinary team will closely monitor your furry friend’s mental state, temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing rate. Depending on the severity, drugs and hydration fluids will be given. In severe circumstances, your pet may require hospitalization and intravenous fluids to counteract dehydration.

Plasma transfusions, low-concentration oxygen therapy, and anti-arrhythmic medicines are all potential treatment options. An electrocardiogram may be performed, along with further blood testing, to monitor any changes and guide ongoing treatment.

Timely treatment can be given to your pet if you notice the symptoms and act swiftly!

Save Your Pet from the Heat

Follow these preventive actions to keep your pet safe and avoid heat stress.

Reserve outdoor time for cooler hours
Take your pets outside at cooler times of the day, such as early morning before sunrise or late evening after sunset. Even short walks in extremely hot and humid conditions might result in heatstroke in vulnerable dogs.

Ensure access to shade, water, and rest
When playing or exercising outside, make sure your pooch has fresh and clean water, gets enough rest, and can rest in shade.

Keep your pets indoors on hot days
On hot days, keep your pet indoors in an air-conditioned setting, especially if they have risk factors such as old age, brachycephalic syndrome, obesity, heart disease, tracheal collapse, or laryngeal paralysis.

Regular grooming is a must
Keep your pet cool in the summer by bathing them regularly. Professional grooming sessions can help maintain a healthy coat length, which is especially advantageous for long-haired breeds. Avoid zero cuts or shaves in the summer, as lengthy hair provides cool air pockets and helps regulate your pet’s body temperature.

Remember that attention and early action are essential in preventing heat stress and keeping our beloved pets happy and healthy….

(Dr. Goel’s Homeopathy for pets)