Warm Weather Threats

     The sun is shining. Temperatures are rising. The grill is going. School is out. Life is good in the summer time. Everyone gets to spend more time outside, including our dogs. But with higher temps comes higher risks, and heatstroke in dogs can turn deadly quickly. Heatstroke occurs when your dog's temperature rises to 104.9 degrees-109.4 degrees (normal range is 101-102.5 degrees). As we enjoy these summer months, we must always be careful, cautious, and remember that if you're feeling hot - your dog's feeling hotter. Keep reading for tips on how to avoid heatstroke in your dog, what to look out for, and how heatstroke is treated.

     One of the  best ways to keep your companions cool is to plan outdoor activities ahead of time. This allows you to monitor the forecast, heat index, and temperatures outside and in cars. If you're questioning whether bringing your dog is a good idea, it's best to play it safe and leave them at home in the cooler air. If you can't bear the thought of leaving Fido home, remember that it's ok to change plans for the sake of your pet's safety. Instead, try opting for an indoor activity to keep your dog entertained and cool. If you do venture outside, avoid the hottest parts of the day and always check the temperature of pavement. If it's too hot for your hand, it's definitely too hot for your dog's paw pads.

     All dogs are at risk for heatstroke, with brachycephalic breeds at an increased risk. Warning signs that your pet may be in danger of heatstroke include:

• Excessive salivation
• Panting
• Inability to get comfortable
• Bright red tongue and gums
• Rectal temperature of 105 degrees or greater
• Lack of urine production
• Bloody diarrhea

     The first thing to do if you suspect your dog is on the verge of heatstroke is to get them out of the heat! Move to a shaded area or inside and offer water to drink. Since fur is an insulator and holds in body heat, cool water can be used to wet down their entire body. As the water evaporates it allows the body to cool, much like sweating. Avoid ice water, ice packs, and alcohol as they can cause vasoconstriction, which leads to shivering that will drive the body temperature up. Avoid placing wet towels directly on the pet; this creates an insulating air barrier that holds heat in. Direct a fan on low to blow at the dog. You should be constantly monitoring your dog's rectal temperature. If you're able to get your dog's temperature down to around 103.4 degrees, it's time to stop actively cooling. Their temperature may continue to drop on it's own and you don't want to overshoot.
                                    Left untreated, heatstroke can cause:

• Organ failure
• Shock
• Cardiac arrest
• Blood clotting disorders
• Vomiting blood
• Bloody diarrhea
• Black, tarry stools
• Seizures
• Drunken gait
• Muscle tremors
• Fluid buildup in the brain
• Unconsciousness
• Death

     If you are unable to stabilize your dog on your own, seek veterinary attention immediately. Treatment can include placement of an IV catheter to administer emergency drugs and intravenous fluids. Diagnostics like urinalysis, blood work, ultrasound, and ECG may be performed to check for clotting disorders, organ damage, and other internal problems. Depending on the severity of heatstroke, hospitalization may be required. Overall prognosis depends on the degree of hyperthermia (elevated body temperature above normal) and length of time it takes for the temperature to return to normal, though it is generally considered guarded to poor. If a patient does not respond to treatment within 24 hours, their chance of survival is minimal.

     Don't let your summer fun turn into sudden heartbreak. We all know those sun-seeking dogs and fetch dogs that will push themselves to the limit because they don't know when to stop. It's our job to monitor and regulate their time in the heat. But it's important to note that heatstroke isn't limited to time spent outside. It can also be a result of dogs kept in confined spaces, in parked cars, and even sunrooms.
     Does this mean you can't have fun with your dog in the summer? Absolutely not! It just means there's more to consider when temperatures reach their peaks. Remember: shade, water, fans, and even misters are essential to your dog's summer activities!