heat stroke

Contrary to what most people believe, dogs overheat more quickly than humans do. They wear their fur coat all year
long and they do not sweat. They cool their bodies by panting, or blowing out heat, which is much less effective than
sweating. Even if you are comfortable, your dog may be too hot!
What happens in heat stroke?
Heat stroke happens when heat gain exceeds the body's ability to dissipate heat. High temperatures cause chemical
reactions that break down body cells which lead to dehydration and blood thickening. This puts extreme strain on the
heart and causes blood clotting and subsequent death to tissue. Liver, brain and intestinal cells are usually the first to be
affected and this can occur quickly. Normal body temperature for a dog is about 101 F to 102 F. If his temperature reaches
106 F, he is in danger of brain damage, vital organ failure and death. Reducing body temp quickly is imperative. A dog
who recovers can still have organ damage and lifelong health problems. Temperatures above 106 F are extremely
dangerous.
Symptoms, Rapid, frantic panting, Wide eyes, Thick saliva, Bright red tongue, Vomiting. Staggering, Diarrhea,Coma
First Aid
Heat stroke is deadly! Heat stroke is an emergency! Cool the dog, in whatever way you can and get him to a veterinarian
immediately! Hose him off, immerse him in cool (not cold) water, use fans, take him to air conditioning, or sponge the
groin area, tummy area, wet his tongue, place rolled up wet towels against his head, neck, tummy, and between his legs.
When his temperature drops to 104 F or 103 F, stop cooling efforts. Cooling too fast or too much can cause other
problems.
Treatment
If the dog's temperature is still high when he reaches the vet's office, they may give a cool water enema, cool water
gastric lavage (rinse the stomach), and IV fluids, and draw blood samples. The dog will be monitored for shock, kidney
failure, heart abnormalities, respiratory stress, and blood clotting time. The dog may be given oxygen, dextrose,
cortisone, antihistamines, anticoagulants, or antibiotics. Once he is stabilized, he may require follow up treatment.
Prevention
Never, ever leave your dog in a parked car! Not even for a few minutes! Heat inside a parked car can build, in just a few
short minutes, to as much as 40 degrees above the outside temperature. For instance, on an 80 F day, temperatures in a
parked car can reach 120 F in as little as ten minutes, especially if the car is in the sun. Leaving the windows cracked
helps very little and that's only IF there's a breeze. Factor in humidity and the dog doesn't have a snowball's chance!
For outside dogs, provide shade, ventilation, wading pool, and cool drinking water. Keep in mind that shade moves as
the earth rotates.