for some of us Hooman, we dream of a hot summer when the sky is blue, the sun is shining and everything is fine. But unfortunately that’s not the case with our furry friends.
Summer isn’t all that fun for dogs. Dogs are more susceptible to dehydration and heat stroke during this time. And heat stroke in dogs can be a serious, life-threatening problem.
But not all dogs are created equal. Some dog breeds are more likely to suffer from summer heat and dryness than others.
In this article, we’ll discuss heat stroke in dogs and list the six dog breeds most at risk this summer.
So before you take your furry friend on a summer hike or beach trip, be sure to read this article to learn more about the dangers of heat stroke.
dog heat stroke
Dogs often pant after playing, exercising, or when the weather or season is hot. Dogs panting is the same as humans sweating when they get too hot and take heat from their bodies.
However, if a dog is panting and unable to cool down, it can overheat and develop heatstroke, which can lead to death if not addressed immediately.
according to VCAHospitalA dog’s body temperature above 103°F (39.4°C) is considered abnormal. A person is already considered heatstroke if his fever exceeds 106°F (41°F) without any other signs of illness.
And when body temperature reaches 107°F to 109°F (41.2°C to 42.7°C), multiple organs begin to malfunction and death is imminent.
Signs and Symptoms of Heat Stroke in Dogs
Dogs suffering from heat stroke may exhibit the following signs and symptoms:
- loud gasping
- difficulty breathing
- Temperature rise
- too much drooling
- Dry or sticky gums
- bruises on the gums
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- lethargy or drowsiness
- uncoordinated movements
- seizure
What Causes Heat Stroke in Dogs?
There are many factors that cause heat stroke in dogs. However, the most common cause is a hot environment. For example, leaving your dog in a car without adequate ventilation. Even on a cool day, a dog’s body temperature rises quickly when left in a car, often within minutes, with potentially fatal consequences.
Other factors that can cause heat stroke in dogs include:
- Physical strength: A weak dog, especially in a hot environment, is prone to heat stroke if it suddenly exerts a lot of energy.
- weight: Obese or overweight dogs are more susceptible to heat stroke.
- water: Not drinking enough water can cause your dog’s body temperature to rise.
- Change of weather and seasons: If the weather changes to summer or it’s too hot, your dog’s body can have a hard time adjusting to it.
- Breeding: Dog breeds with thick coats, long hairs and short noses are prone to heatstroke.
- Medical disability: dogs suffering from medical problems such as hypothyroidism, Heart diseaseand laryngeal paralysis It is easy to get heat stroke.
6 dog breeds most at risk of heatstroke
1. Chow Chow
Chow Chows are known for having a very thick double coat that can overheat in the summer.
In fact, according to a survey conducted in 2020, veterinary compassChow Chows were found to be 17 times more susceptible to heat stroke than other breeds.
2. English Bulldog
No wonder the flat-faced English Bulldog makes the list. This breed is known to suffer from Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome. This means that these dogs have short facial and nasal bones, which means they have small nostrils and difficulty breathing.
Excessive exercise, especially during the summer, can make it very difficult to breathe, making you more susceptible to heat stroke.
3. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are also a brachycephalic breed and are at increased risk of heat stroke during the summer months.
Like the English Bulldog, the French Bulldog’s flat face and small nostrils make it difficult to breathe, even when resting or in cool weather. After all, effective panting is a dog’s way of removing heat from his body.
4. French Mastiff
The French Mastiff or Dogue de Bordeaux are also flat-faced dog breeds at high risk of heat stroke.
In a 2020 study from VetCompass, data showed that flat-faced dogs had twice the risk of getting heatstroke compared to average-nosed dog breeds.
In addition, the French Mastiff’s large, muscular build also contributes to its sensitivity. Since these dogs weigh about 50kg, they are three times more likely to develop heat stroke than dogs weighing less than 10kg.
5. Greyhound
Speaking of muscle, greyhounds are also a muscular dog breed with a high risk of heatstroke.
according to CatAccording to a British veterinarian of Tiktok fame, greyhounds’ “large muscle mass” relative to body size is a major factor in their vulnerability to heatstroke. They have little body fat and he only has one layer of fur, which makes it difficult to protect himself from the heat.
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
And last on the list is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Heatstroke in dogs is common in breeds that are prone to obesity with flat faces and thick, long coats. And it just so happens that these little angels tick all those boxes.
So if you have one, you need to keep a close eye on it to make sure it’s safe and healthy this summer.
How to prevent heat stroke in dogs
Summer heat stroke is a disaster. And as a dog parent, it’s important to be aware of the temperature outside before engaging in any activity with your dog. Keeping your dog safe in the heat of summer is paramount.
Here’s how to prevent heat stroke in your dog this summer.
- If you are outdoors, make sure you are in an area with plenty of shade, ventilation, and access to drinking water.
- Be sure to open windows and air conditioners for ventilation during your trip. And under no circumstances should your dog be left alone in the vehicle.
- Exercise only in the early morning or late at night when temperatures are cooler.
- When you’re home, always keep your dog indoors or outdoors with plenty of air and shade.
How to Treat Heat Stroke in Dogs
Heatstroke in dogs is considered a medical emergency because it can be life-threatening. If you suspect your dog has heat stroke, contact your veterinarian immediately and do your best to cool him down.
Here’s what you need to do to lower your body temperature when your dog is showing signs of heat stroke.
- Remove your dog from the hot environment and move it to a cool, shaded area.
- Immediately pour cold (not cold) water over your dog. Do not splash water on your face. You may drown.
- Avoid using ice to cool your dog. This can exacerbate the problem and cause hypothermia.
- If possible, have your dog drink the coldest water possible.
- Place a wet cloth under your dog. Change the cloth continuously. If you don’t, you’ll just end up overheating.
- Make sure there is a continuous flow of air over your dog to help your dog breathe while evaporating heat.
- Always travel with the windows open or air conditioning on when you go to the vet.
At the hospital, the veterinarian will administer intravenous (IV) therapy to your dog. We also monitor and examine dogs for secondary complications such as renal failure, blood pressure changes, and abnormal clotting.
Conclusion
Summer heat is no joke! Heatstroke poses a danger not only to your dog, but to you as well. Therefore, it is very important to know the signs and know how to deal with them immediately.
It’s always fun and safe for you and your furry friends all summer long. Whether it’s a hike, his barbecue party, or his day at the beach, your dog will love the challenge. But it’s always up to you to be careful and aware of the weather and the consequences it can cause.
Is your furry friend’s breed on the list?