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Heat stroke in dogs

Heatstroke in dogs is a life-threatening condition. When a pet overheats and cannot get rid of excess heat, heatstroke can occur very quickly. Overheating can occur with running or intense exercise during hot weather. Heat stroke is often caused by owners leaving dogs in unventilated areas, in the sun or in cars.

Puppies, seniors and obese dogs, dogs with heart and respiratory problems, brachiocephalic breeds with flattened muzzles such as bulldogs, boxers, pugs, Pekingese and the like are particularly at risk.

At a body temperature of 42°C, damage and death of cells occurs, as well as failure of vital organs and brain damage. If the dog's body temperature reaches this temperature, it is necessary to cool the dog down immediately.

Heat stroke in dogs

Pets that experience heatstroke are weak, may have seizures similar to epileptic seizures, muscle spasms and loss of consciousness are possible. Depending on the duration of the condition, the symptoms can be rapid and shallow breathing, i.e. increased panting, elevated temperature over 41°C, red ears on the inside, red or pale mucous membrane of the oral cavity, vomiting blood and bloody diarrhea.

If the described signs appear, the pet must be cooled URGENTLY. It is best with lukewarm, cool water, never cold, because it can cause a counter effect with a new shock to the body and a too sudden difference in temperature. In case of loss of consciousness, in addition to the described, additionally wrap ice cubes in a cloth and place on the dog's head. It is important to control the dog's temperature, when it drops below 39.5°C stop cooling and take the pet to the vet immediately so that further therapy with cold infusion, diuretics and, if necessary, enemas and oxygen can be applied.

Prevention of heat stroke

Provide constant access to clean and fresh water, which should be changed more often, or place a couple of water bowls. For the dog's stay, provide a cool place or a place in the shade, bathe as often as possible, limit physical activities during extreme heat. Pets eat less in hot weather. They should not be forced, but should be offered lighter and smaller meals. Hydrate dehydrated food by soaking it in water for about 15 minutes before giving it to the dog.

Dogs without fur, with too short or sparse hair, are susceptible to sunburn and overheat faster. Do not shave dogs to the skin! Cut it or trim it to a maximum of 1 cm. Do not leave skin unprotected by hair.

Space air conditioning

If you use air conditioners to cool the space, turn it on before it gets hot. Always leave the air conditioner on for pets when they are alone at home. Remember, the fact that you are not at home does not mean that they are not hot! Never set a fan or air conditioner to blow directly on the animal.

Dog pool

Cooling mat for dogs

Recently, cooling mats for dogs have become popular, but they also hide a trap that can be quite dangerous. The composition of the mats is toxic to dogs if punctured. It can cause allergic reactions and serious neurological side effects. Be sure to check the composition and warnings on the product to avoid possible poisoning of your snout. Never leave your dog unattended with a cooling mat.

How to safely cool down a dog

Do longer walks and intensive activities with dogs in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower. Replace running with swimming if you can.
If you are not near the sea, lake or stream, it is a good idea dog pool in which the muzzle can cool all day if it wants! Choose a dog pool that matches the size of your muzzle or get a slightly bigger one so you can both fit in it 😊

In the car, on the beach or in a cafe, give your muzzle a place to rest. For this purpose, they are the most practical Roll up bearings. In addition to the fact that the dog will know where it should lie, the roll up bed will protect it from hard and irregular surfaces, and it will also protect the seat in your car.