Heatstroke is the elevation of the body’s temperature and is a life threatening condition that requires immediate treatment. Dogs left in hot cars, pets exposed to extreme heat when left outdoors, lack of adequate shade or being exercised in hot weather are all causes that can lead to heatstroke.  Heatstroke is most common in dogs, especially brachycephalic breeds (those with short muzzles e.g. British Bulldogs, Pugs etc).

Other predisposing factors can be diseases of the pet’s airways or obesity. The vet will look into the underlying cause once your pet is in a stable condition.

Signs of Heatstroke

Initially your pet will appear very distressed; they will pant excessively and become restless. As the situation becomes worse and the body temperature increases they may drool copious volumes of saliva and become unsteady on their feet. You may notice your pet's gums become a bluish purple or bright red colour. This is due to the inadequate oxygen supply to the tissues.

First Aid

Cool your pet immediately by immersing in a cold water bath, or if this is not possible, soak them using running water from a hose. After wetting it is best to use a fan or air conditioning to maintain airflow over the body. As you travel to the vet, keep the fan or air conditioning going over your pet to maintain a cooling effect. This initial home treatment greatly increases your pet’s chance of surviving.

Get vet attention for your pet immediately, as intensive care is generally required to save your pet’s life. It is only in mild cases that the initial home cooling is adequate treatment.

Vet Treatment

On arrival at the vet clinic, your vet will assess your pet and determine the treatment required. The more severe the case, the more intensive the care that will be required.

Intravenous fluids are needed in heat stroke cases. The intravenous fluids cool the body, maintain blood pressure, support the kidney system and generally help speed recovery.

Your pet’s airway will need to be maintained and excess saliva kept clear from the mouth at all times. Oxygen may be required. At times sedation is needed to allow safe, effective ventilation.

Your vet will closely monitor your pet. This generally involves observing changes in body temperature, blood tests and urine examinations to assess the extent of damages and their progression.

Prevention

There are a few steps you can take to help prevent heatstroke. Ensure your pet has plenty of fresh, clean water at all times. If they are outside, place their water in a shady area. Consider using frozen water bottles to keep it cool – or provide a number of water bowls in different areas.

Some pets love to tip over water dishes, ensure they are large and made of heavy material.

NEVER leave your pet unattended in a car. Cars heat up very quickly and are the most common cause of heatstroke. Even if you open the windows it does little to slow the overheating process. Pet’s do not sweat rather they evaporate heat by panting. Panting requires large amounts of air to move heat away from your pet and when the heat is trapped in the car, they can literally overheat and die within minutes.

Avoid exercising your pet during the hottest hours of the day, especially in the summer months. Enjoy early morning and evening walks but keep your pet away from the pavement and hot bitumen during the heat of the day.

If walking your dog for any long period of time ensure you stop to let your pet rest and drink on a regular basis. Collapsible water bowls are a very handy walking accessory.

If pets are to be left outdoors during hot weather ensure they have adequate shade to shelter from the sun.

Allow your pet to wander around the yard so they can pick a cool spot during the day.

Although most commonly seen in dogs, all animals can be affected by heatstroke.

If you think your pet is in distress, phone your vet immediately for advice. Your quick actions could save your pet’s life.

Your pet’s body may feel burning hot and, as the body temperature continues to climb the animal will collapse, become comatose and, if vet treatment is not sought immediately, may soon die.

Other Summer Safety Tips

Pets can get skin cancer too. If your pet loves to laze around in the sun, slop on a pet sunscreen, especially to pink or white noses!

For some unlucky pets, flies can cause irritation and leave bleeding ear tips. Keep them away by spraying a special fly repellent for pets.

Most dogs’ love to roam at the beach. Unfortunately, one of their favourite treasures is dead fish. Never let your dog eat or chew on dead fish, particularly blow fish. Not only will they make your companion very ill they can also cause fatal injury if left untreated.

Make Summer Fun

If your dog is a water lover purchase a children’s plastic pool and half fill it with water. This becomes an additional water bowl and they can also play, splash, dig, lie down and have loads of fun in it!

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