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Hypothermia: What it is and how to spot it
Hypothermia happens when a body can’t keep up with heat loss. This is especially concerning during the winter months, when dogs can be exposed to temperatures well below what they can tolerate. Heat loss in dogs is usually a result of cold moisture/being cold and wet, exposure to cold or under-insulated surfaces, blustery winds or over-grooming/shaving. There are other ways a dog can develop hypothermia, but these are the most common. There is no set amount of time or exact temperature that a dog will start to suffer from hypothermia. Thick-coated dogs such as Siberian Huskies or Alaskan Malamutes can withstand much colder temperatures than their Terrier and Chihuahua relatives. Dogs with a high muscle density and low body fat are also likely to lose body heat quickly.
Hypothermia Symptoms
Loss of consciousness from lethargy to unconscious
Delayed or slow reflexes
Weak Pulse/Low Blood Pressure
Shivering
Slow or abnormal heart rate
Pale, bluish or purple skin coloration or body parts
Shallow or infrequent breaths
Shivering stops when body o temp falls below 88
Dilated/unresponsive pupils
Muscle stiffness
Hypothermia is a veterinary emergency
Normal canine body o temp is 99.5 to 102.5 F
Prevention:
Stages of Hypothermia: Mild Moderate Severe
Body temp is 90-99o F
Limit exposure to cold temperatures
Monitor your dog regularly
o
Body temp is 82-90 F Body temp is <82o F
Most at-home thermometers won’t read below 90-94o If your thermometer reads anything below 96o, you should transport the dog to a
Consider protective dog clothing such as jackets and boots Provide shelter with adequate insulation from the elements
Acclimation does play a role in a dogs ability to withstand cold temperatures
Not all dogs can handle living outdoors
veterinary clinic immediately.
If you see a dog showing signs of hypothermia: Contact the owner or Animal Services for immediate help.
