Dogs love summers as much as their human companions do. However, the risk of getting a heat stroke is very real, thanks to global warming. In this blog post, we go through everything you need to know about heat stroke in dogs.

Dogs love summers as much as humans do as it’s when they get to play outdoors and enjoy the warm weather.

However, with the heatwave making rounds, it is important to keep your dog safe during the summer months.

Heat Stroke in dogs is more common than you think.

And, it’s a serious condition that may require hospitalization.

In this blog post, we will go through everything you need to know about heat stroke in dogs, and how you can keep your furry friend protected from the sun.

So, without further ado, let’s get started!

What is Heat Stroke in Dogs?

Here are Some Symptoms of Heat Stroke in Dogs

A Deeper Look: What Causes Heat Stroke in Dogs?

Here’s What to Do If Your Dog Is Overheated

Prevention is Better Than Cure: How to Protect Your Dog This Summer!

Summing Up: Heat Stroke in Dogs

What is Heat Stroke in Dogs?

Heat Stroke is a serious condition in dogs.

Unlike humans, dogs do not have sweat glands all over their body to help them regulate their body temperature. They do, however, have sweat glands on their paws.

Dogs maintain their body’s temperature by panting.

But, when, panting isn’t enough, the dog’s body temperature rises which can be fatal if not taken care of in time!

Golden Retrievers who live in warm or tropical areas are highly prone to developing heat stroke.

Here are Some Symptoms of Heat Stroke in Dogs

In this section of the blog post, we will go through some of the most common symptoms of heat stroke in dogs. Take a look:

• Excessive panting
• Signs of physical discomfort
• Unwillingness to move
• Reddened gums
• Excessive drooling
• Rapid heart rate
• Glazed eyes
• Drooling
• Vomiting
• Mental dullness
• Diarrhoea
• Fever
• Uncoordinated movements
• Lack of coordination
• Loss of consciousness
• Collapse

If you observe any of the signs mentioned above in your dog, you should call the vet as soon as possible.

A Deeper Look: What Causes Heat Stroke in Dogs?

Carelessness on the part of the owner is as big a factor in a dog getting a heat stroke as is a hot and humid climate.

The most common reasons why dogs have to be rushed to an emergency veterinary care clinic include forgetting to provide the dog with water or shade when outdoors, leaving the dog locked in the car, leaving the dog in the backyard during the day, etc.

In addition to that, some dogs are also more prone to getting a heat stroke. This includes:

• Older dogs
• Overweight dogs
• Flat-faced or brachycephalic dogs (such as bulldogs, pugs, etc.)
• Dogs with medical conditions such as obesity or laryngeal paralysis

Active, playful or working dog breeds such as German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, etc. need to be constantly monitored during the heat as vigorous play puts them at risk of getting heat exhaustion.

Here’s What to Do If Your Dog Is Overheated

If you notice any of the symptoms that we’ve mentioned above, you need to treat the heat exhaustion as soon as you can. Time is of the essence in such cases.

In this section of the blog post, we will go through some of the steps you can follow to help your furry friend cool off.

Take a look.

1. Remove Your Dog From the Environment: The first step to getting your furry friend to cool down is by removing him from the hot environment. If possible, bring your dog indoors or to a shady area as soon as possible
2. Check His Temperature: Using a thermometer, check your dog’s body temperature. If it falls between 103 to 106, he’s facing heat exhaustion. However, if the temperature is higher than 106, it’s time to call the doctor
3. Try to Bring the Temperature Down: If you’re near a body of water (such as a like, swimming pool, etc.) let your dog take a dip to cool his body temperature down. If not, use wet towels to bring your dog’s body temperature down
4. Give Him Water: Drinking water will help your furry friend bring his body temperature down. However, don’t force your dog to drink water
5. Call the Vet: Call the vet and ask what needs to be done. If needed, you might have to take your dog to the emergency services so, be prepared

Prevention is Better Than Cure: How to Protect Your Dog This Summer!

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are extremely dangerous and have serious consequences. So, it is crucial to ensure that you take every measure possible to avoid such a situation altogether.

In this section of the blog, we will go through some things that help avoid the risk of your dog getting heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

• Don’t Let the Dogs Out: If the day is exceptionally hot or humid, you should avoid letting your pooch out to play in the heat
• Provide Plenty of Shade & Water: Thinking about taking your dog to the beach? Carry an umbrella for him to sit under when needed along with plenty of water for him to have
• Avoid Rookie Mistakes: Don’t leave your pet alone in a parked car under any circumstances!
• Take Him Swimming: If you have an active dogs with lots of energy, try to take him swimming or let him play in the water instead of playing a game of fetch on especially hot days
• Walks: Take your dog for his walks during the early mornings or evenings when the temperature is a little forgiving

Summing Up: Heat Stroke in Dogs

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are serious and often fatal conditions so, you during the summer time, you need to be prepared to keep your dog from overheating.

In this blog post, we went through everything you needed to know about heat stroke in dogs.

If you have any questions, let us know in the comments, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.