HYPERTHERMIA

UNDERSTANDING THIS POTENTIALLY FATAL CONDITION

Hyperthermia, otherwise termed heatstroke, occurs when your dog’s temperature becomes above normal.

CAUSES

Hyperthermia usually occurs because the dog has been left in a hot environment, such as a car, conservatory or area with no shade. It can also happen when dogs are walked or exercised on hot days.

Medical reasons a dog might overheat include poisoning, meningitis or viruses.

Some breeds are more prone to heatstroke than others. The most susceptible breeds tend to be the brachycephalic or flat-faced breeds, as they have trouble keeping cool due to the lack of turbinate bones in the nasal passages, which act as a cooling system in most dogs.

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of hyperthermia include:

• Breathing distress

• Drooling

• Feeling hot to the touch

• Having a rapid heart rate

• Rapid panting

• Confusion

• Vomiting

• Staggering

• Glassy eyes

• Seizures

• Red gums

• Fearful expression

TREATMENT

Always take a dog with possible heatstroke to the vet, as the condition can prove fatal.

In terms of immediate first aid, you need to move the dog away from the heat and into a shaded area. Then, if you can lay the dog on a wet towel and spray water on them, this will help. Notably, the water must be cool and not freezing cold. You can also offer the dog small amounts of water to drink. These measures can help while waiting for the vet or transport to the vet.

IMPORTANT: Never cold plunge a hyperthermic dog, as this can cause them to go into ‘shock’ and even prove fatal.