Staying in a parked car or transport cage exposed to the sun, in transport cages at the back of the car, in a small enclosed space that is poorly ventilated, strenuous exercise in a hot environment and excessive sun exposure can lead to hyperthermia (one step before heatstroke) and finally to heatstroke.

 

A dog / cat may suffer heatstroke not only by the heat that exists in the atmosphere, but also when the floor is too hot, since the soles absorb the heat very easily.

The normal temperature of an animal at rest is 38,2 °C-39,3 °C. The temperature in case of hyperthermia exceeds 39,3 °C and the temperature in cases of heatstroke is usually above 42 °C.

 

Symptoms of hyperthermia and later of heatstroke fan dog

  • Pupils’ enlargement
  • Salivation (saliva production)
  • Weakness, tiredness
  • Detuning movements
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Spasms
  • Tachycardia
  • Rapid breathing
  • Forfeiture
  • Loss of balance
  • Confrontation

Once these symptoms occur, we should measure the temperature of the animal. We use thermometer rectally (the head of which is smeared with petroleum jelly or other pure lubricant) by lifting its tail and inserting the thermometer into 2 cm for about 3 minutes and gently remove.

 

If the temperature exceeds the limits mentioned above:

  • We place the dog in a cool floor, preferably in an air conditioned place.
  • We soak a towel with alcohol and wet the soles of the animal (areas of thermoregulation).
  • We repeatedly pass an ice cube on its neck and its back and put a cool wet towel on the head and torso.

 

Caution: Be careful as very cold water may lead the animal into shock.

We check the temperature every 5 minutes. If the temperature does not drop, we visit the vet as the spasms from dehydration and heat can damage the brain. If eventually the temperature drops, a visit to the vet is also recommended.

 

Tips

  • Avoid or reduce intensity and duration of exercise, training, hunting or other activities when the temperatures are high.

 

  • The walk in the summer is preferable early in the morning or late in the evening due to the fact that the rest of the day the roads and pavements burn.

 

  • Never leave a dog in a parked car on a hot day, as a hot car is like a hot oven!

 

  • In the summer it is better to keep the dog inside the house, but if this is not possible, make sure the dog is in a shady place and there is always fresh cold water available.