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Dogs’ resting body temperature is already higher than that of humans, and their primary means of shedding body heat is through panting. But as the temperature and humidity outside rise, this method of cooling becomes less and less effective, and they can experience multisystem organ failure, which leads to these symptoms, among others:
Other warning signs of heatstroke include a darkened tongue, rapid heart rate, and glassy eyes.
There are several factors that affect how quickly dogs overheat, besides the ambient temperature and humidity, including their activity level, age, and overall health; the thickness of their fur; and even the shape of their head. Did you know that brachycephalic (“flat-faced”) breeds are prone to overheating more quickly than other dogs as a result of their breathing problems? Or that dogs can also get heatstroke (or burn their paws) from everyday activities like running, walking, or playing? But regardless of these factors, any overheated dog can sustain brain damage and even die within minutes.
Dogs exhibiting symptoms should be taken into an air-conditioned space or the shade immediately and offered water. They must be taken to a vet as soon as possible. If you’re waiting for authorities to arrive, you can attempt to lower the dog’s body temperature by applying a lukewarm or cool (not cold) towel to the head and chest while you wait. If someone is with you, one person can perform these actions in the car as the other drives you to a veterinarian.
The longer dogs experience hyperthermia (high body temperature), the more likely they are to die as a result of it. Many dogs who receive emergency treatment still do not survive.
How long does it take for a dog to die of heat stroke?
While there is no set length of time as to how long it takes for a dog to die from a heat-related illness, death can occur within an hour. This is especially the case for dogs that are predisposed to heat stroke. However, there have been cases where a dog has passed away in as little as 15 minutes from the onset of a heat stroke.
Heat stroke results in multi organ failure, for every organ that is affected, the prognosis decreases by 25%. If left untreated, recovery from heat stroke is almost non-existent. Some dogs can fully recover from heat stroke if it is caught and treated early enough. Others can suffer permanent damage to their organs and require lifelong treatment.
What Can Cause Your Dog to Get Heat Stroke?
There are many situations that can result in your dog overheating.
Underlying medical conditions can elevate their body temperature to dangerous levels.
The information in this article is for otherwise healthy dogs (without underlying medical conditions) but do be aware of this and take your dog to the vet if you are concerned.
Other things that can cause hyperthermia in dogs is:
Heat stroke/exhaustion first aid every dog owner needs to know.
The dangers of leaving your dog in your car – especially during particularly hot weather and over the summer months in general – are widely known. Heat stroke can kill a dog in under an hour, so do not take any chances. Never leave a dog in a locked car, even if it is just for a short time.