by: Frank Shuman

We are slowly working our way into the heat of the summer. Becoming aware of how to prevent and treat your pet for heat exhaustion and heat stroke are important. Hyperthermia may be a life-threatening condition and does require immediate treatment once a dog or cat’s body temperature measures in excess of 105°F. Heatstroke generally occurs under the following conditions:

1) When an animal is left outdoors in hot and humid conditions without adequate shade.

2) When exercised in hot and humid weather.

3) When left in a car, the temperature can increasing by an average of 40°F within one hour regardless of outside temperature.

Obesity and diseases that affect the airway predispose your pet to becoming hyperthermic. Also, short-nosed breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus and Boxers may suffer from brachycephalic syndrome which decreases their ability to effectually pant causing them to overheat.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion or stroke are excessive panting and salivating. Signs that your pet has a more serious case are unsteadiness on their feet and gum color turning blue, purple or bright red. If these symptoms are observed then you should immediately move your pet to a cool environment and apply cool water or rubbing alcohol to their feet, ear flaps, armpits and groin areas. Also, direct a fan onto them to increase evaporative cooling. Please seek immediate attention by a veterinarian for supportive care and to help re-hydrate your pet to prevent organ failure.

If you attempt to initiate treatment at home it is wise to get a rectal temperature from your pet and monitor. Active cooling methods should be continued until your pet’s temperature is 102.5°F. If you continue to cool your pet past this temperature you are risking causing reflexive hypothermia. Do not force your pet to drink water, but offering cool water will help, if they drink it willingly.

Your pet can suffer from residual symptoms of heat exhaustion even days later so it is important to visit your veterinarian to provide care. Pet owners should slowly acclimate their pets to rising temperatures this time of year. Also remember to always provide a cool place for your pet to escape the heat, to prevent such a dangerous event.

Frank Shuman IV is the Medical Director at Drippings Springs Animal Hospital who has been serving the area for over 30+ years.  The hospital is located at 1520 E. HWY 290 and he can be reached at 512-858-4787.