Recognizing Heat Stroke in Dogs

Summer is in full swing, with a steady stream of 90+ degree days in the forecast all around Pittsburgh. As the temperatures rise, keep a close eye on your dog - heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke and put your best friend's life at risk!

The best defense against overheating is an educated pet owner, so we're here to teach you the signs to look for and first aid steps to take in a heat emergency (on your way to the vet).

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How do dogs regulate their body temperature?

Since they don't have sweat glands (aside from a few in the paw pads), dogs cool themselves by panting and heat exchange (convection) through the skin. In extreme heat, this just isn't enough to keep up with a rapidly rising body temperature.

• A dog's normal temperature ranges between 99.5 - 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit.
• An elevated body temperature beyond 103 degrees (not fever-related) is considered hyperthermia.

Is your dog high-risk for heat stroke?
Brachycephalic breeds ("snub-nosed" dogs like Pugs, Bulldogs, & Boxers) are at an even higher risk due to their often inefficient respiratory function.
Dogs with thick, long fur (such as Huskies, Pomeranians, & Samoyeds) have more difficulty dissipating heat through their skin.

What is Heat Stroke?

Heat stroke occurs when your dog is no longer able to regulate his body temperature.

A dog with a body temperature of 106 or higher is in immediate danger!

Without treatment, heat stroke causes multiple organ failure, and can result in permanent brain damage, cardiac arrest and death.

Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs

• Rapid, excessive panting
• Rectal body temperature above 103° F
• Increased heart rate
• Irregular heartbeat
• Bright red tongue
• Red (or pale) gums
• Weakness & incoordination (appears "drunk")
• ​Muscle tremors or seizure​

• Dehydration
• Excessive drooling
• Thick, sticky saliva
• Vomiting (may have blood)
• Black, tarry stool
• Decreased urine production
  
• Unconsciousness
• ​Cardiopulmonary arrest

First Aid for Heat Stroke

Begin action to gradually lower your dog's body temperature while en route to the veterinarian.
If possible, call the office on your way so that the staff can prepare to handle your emergency before you arrive.

• Immediately remove your dog from the heat.
• Place cool (NOT ice cold), wet towels over the back of the neck, under the front legs, and in the groin.
• Use a fan to increase air movement.
• If your dog is able to drink on his own, allow free access to water (do not force to avoid choking or aspiration into the lungs).

CAUTION! Cooling too quickly and allowing the body temperature to become too low can cause other life-threatening medical conditions.

• Check rectal temperature every 5 minutes.
• Stop cooling measures when the thermometer reads 103ºF.
• Dry your dog thoroughly and cover with dry towels or a blanket to avoid further heat loss.

Even if your dog appears to be recovering, continue to the veterinarian's office for an exam. She may need treatment for dehydration or other complications resulting from hyperthermia.

If you experience an emergency with your dog outside of our office hours, get to the nearest Emergency Vet as soon as possible:

• PVSEC (North Hills, Camp Horne Rd): 412-366-3400
• University Veterinary Specialists (South Hills, Washington Rd): 724-717-2273
• Butler Veterinary Associates & Emergency Center (Butler, N. Main St.): 724-283-2345