Heat Stroke!

Hello everyone! We want to talk about a very important topic that we believe is essential to know and keep in mind.

What is it?

First of all, dogs DO NOT SWEAT. They regulate their temperature through panting — rapid breathing — paw pads, contact with cool surfaces and less furry areas such as the abdomen. Heat stroke is a sudden rise in body temperature. A dog's normal temperature is 38–39°C; during heat stroke it can rise to 42°C. That's why it's important to watch water intake and temperature changes.

Risk factors

• High outdoor temperature
• Confined spaces
• High ambient humidity
• Insufficient water or infrequent water changes
• Lack of shade
• Heat-retaining surfaces such as asphalt
• Tied-up dogs

Higher-risk dogs

• Young dogs, seniors and brachycephalic breeds
• Dogs with respiratory and/or heart conditions
• Dogs fed recently then exercised
• Obese dogs

Symptoms

• Rapid, forced breathing with mouth open
• Accelerated pulse
• Instability, weakness and tremors
• Changes in saliva
• Blue or dark red tongue and mucous membranes
• Very hot skin and coat
• Vomiting and diarrhoea
• Restlessness, confusion, loss of consciousness
• Seizures

How to prevent it

• Always provide access to fresh water
• Spacious, ventilated, shaded areas
• Feed early morning or late evening
• Avoid walks during the hottest hours
• Avoid sudden, intense activity
• NEVER leave a dog in a car

What to do

If you suspect heat stroke, act quickly. Contact your vet and go to the clinic. Try to lower the temperature gradually — NEVER suddenly! You can wet your dog with lukewarm water (not hot, not cold) on paw pads, mouth, neck and armpits. Contact us if you have any questions.