What to do if your dog is suffering from heat stroke

by Lexis Arlington October 9, 2020

Popular breeds, such as Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers and Boxers, among others, are adversely affected by high temperatures and are prone to suffer from heat stroke. A heat stroke can happen to any breed, but these specific breeds are more susceptible due to their brachycephalic (flat faced) anatomy which limits their ability to cool off.

Dogs cool themselves primarily through the process of panting and breathing. When dogs pant, the air passing over the saliva in their mouths helps them cool. In addition, the lining of a dog’s lungs serves as an evaporative surface, much like our skin when we sweat. Blood vessels in the face, ears, and feet can also expand, helping to dispel heat from the body. Yet if the temperatures are especially high, this mechanism can become overwhelmed and they find themselves unable to dispel the heat. The consequences of a dog overheating are very serious. Heatstroke, or hyperthermia, can occur quickly and the result can be deadly.

How to avoid this situation

To avoid hyperthermia make sure you take your dog out when the temperature outside is not super-hot, especially when the humidity is high. Make sure there is plenty of shady space for your dog to cool off and use it frequently. It is especially important to keep him hydrated. In some cases it is recommended to moisten him a bit so the surrounding air can help in the process of diffusing the heat. Make sure you do not leave your dog in a car unattended and do not exercise your dog during the day in summer.

Signs that your dog is over heating

Excessive panting
Increased heart rate
Roaring sound that may accompany the panting
Increased salivation
Body temperature reaches 104°F (40°C) (many people now have "touchless" thermometers, but these are not recommended as they will measure the temperature of the dog's fur, not their body.)

Symptoms of heat stroke

Same as the signs of over heating
Salivation may become foamier in some cases.
Confusion or disorientation
Bright red gums
Collapse, seizure, or coma

What to do if you suspect your dog is going into heat stroke

Get your dog out of the heat immediately, start to cool him down by making him wet and putting ice around his head and in between his legs (make sure the ice is contained by a towel or a plastic bag so that the ice does not burn the dog). If the dog is conscious you can allow him to drink a bit of water. Monitor the body temperature and make sure it is dropping. Once you have him stabilized (body temperature dropping and the dog is more responsive) seek veterinary help immediately. Sometimes you might think your dog is doing well, but you can’t see if his kidneys or other major organs have been compromised. Let your veterinarian do the evaluation.