Dog Heat Stroke and Problematic Breeds
ogic.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/36.-663px-English_Bulldog_puppy-300x271.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="271" />Heat stroke in dogs can happen to almost any dog although Pugs and other short muzzled dog breeds are the most susceptible to the condition. These include breeds that are known as brachycephalic dogs such as:
- Boston Terriers
- Bulldogs
- Mastiffs
- Boxers
However dogs with heavy, double coats are also at risk if they are exercised or kept in direct sunlight in hot conditions without shade or enough shelter and water.
Signs
The signs of heat stroke in dogs start rather quickly after the dogs are exposed to intense heat or exercising in hot weather, often in about 20 minutes. Signs include excessive panting, drooling, staggering, dry gums, vomiting, diarrhea and disorientation in the early stages followed by bloody saliva and vomit, rapid, very shallow and weakening breaths, seizures, coma and very shortly after this the dog will die if not treated immediately.
Emergency Treatment
Since the biggest concern with heat stroke is that the dog's core temperature is rising, it is absolutely essential to get them out of the heat and into someplace cool. This may be in the shade, in an air conditioned vehicle or ideally in a house. Cool water from a hose or on a cloth can be applied to their feet, body and legs, or even better place your dog in a sink or a bathtub or any suitable container that will hold water and run cool water over his or her entire body. Do not use ice water, this can cause shock and will complicate the recovery. Always support your dog's head as if they are disoriented or slipping in and out of consciousness you need to keep their heads up to avoid inhaling water. This cooling needs to be done immediately at the very first signs. The longer the core temperature stays elevated the greater the chance of long term neurological problems.
Provide cool water but do not force the dog to drink. He or she will when the body temperature has cooled back to normal. Contact your vet immediately as they dog needs to be tested for other health issues that can occur when heat stoke has been a problem.
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