 Dr. B and Andie I’ve heard it is illegal to leave my dog in the car unattended. I assume it’s because dogs can die of heat strokes, but what exactly is a heat stroke? How long does it take? What happens? Jennifer Dear Jennifer, Heat stroke is a condition where the core body temperature is dangerously elevated, usually greater then 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Pets that are experiencing a heat stroke may pant excessively, drool heavily, act disoriented, lie on their side unwilling to get up, have a seizure, or die suddenly. It’s important to act immediately when a heat stroke is suspected. First and foremost, try to seek veterinary care as soon as possible because a heat stroke can be fatal and is an emergency. If possible try to quickly take the dog’s temperature rectally and write it down for later reference (do not waste this time if you don’t have someone to help you), then begin to cool the dog using tap water. Avoid using ice cold water, as it will cause constriction of blood vessels in the skin and actually keep heat in. Pour water over the chest, armpits, belly and inner thigh area with a water hose or faucet in a sink or bathtub. You can also pour rubbing alcohol on the belly and footpads and fan the area to encourage evaporation which will help release heat from the skin. Heat strokes can occur in as little as five minutes on a hot, humid day. Use caution when allowing an “inside dog” to go outside during the hottest part of the day. Limit walks and exercise to times of day when the temperature is below 80 degrees and gradually work up to any exercise goal. Ensure “outside dogs” have a shady place to rest and make double-sure they have plenty of fresh, clean water. Bear in mind that old dogs don’t tolerate heat as well as younger dogs. Even if a dog has lived outside his entire life, he can still have a heat stroke if his aging body cannot adjust on a hot day. Also remember that smushy-faced dogs like Pugs and Boston Terriers can easily overheat because they may not be able to pant (which releases heat) as efficiently as typical-faced dogs like Beagles. If treated aggressively, dogs can recover from heat stroke. However, long-term complications can arise that are not immediately seen. Dogs might have kidney, heart or brain damage from the excessive heat that does not show up for weeks to years. Remember … if a certain situation would make you hot, it will make your dog hot, too. Have a chillin’ summer!
Dr. Bammel and Andie
What to do Pour water over the chest, armpits, belly, and inner thigh area with a water hose or faucet in a sink or bathtub if you suspect heat stroke.
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