"Heat Stroke"

During the summer months, it is important to remember that temperatures can get dangerously high for our dogs and cats.  Temperatures within a car can get dangerously high in just a few minutes, even with the windows open.  Exercise or play should never be done in the heat of the day when afternoon temperatures are above 80 degrees Fahrenheit.  Cats and dogs do not cool efficiently by sweating and rely on other means to keep their temperatures in the normal range.  Fresh water and shade should be readily available at all times.   Any time the body temperature goes above 105 degrees, a true emergency exist and your pet should be seen as soon as possible by a veterinarian.

What to do:

• Move your pet away from the location where the hyperthermia occurred.
• Move the pet into the shade and direct a fan on him.
• Take a rectal temperature and record.
• Begin cooling by wetting the trunk and legs with cool (not cold) water.  Rubbing alcohol can also be applied to the stomach skin to facilitate cooling.
• Take your pet to a veterinarian as soon as possible and let the staff know that heat stroke is suspected.

What NOT to do:

• Do not cool your pet if the rectal temperature is less than 103 degrees.
• Do not use ice or cold water to cool the pet.
• Do not overcool the pet.
• Do not attempt to force water orally.
• Do not leave your pet unattended for any length amount of time.

The most common symptoms of heat prostration/stroke is vigorous panting.  The pet can be laying on its side, unable to stand, or weak.  Others will seem agitated and restless.  In severe cases, pets will show signs of shock and are predisposed to multiorgan failure and bleeding disorders.  Patients will need controlled cooling, IV fluids and may need blood transfusions.  Simply lowering your pet's temperature is not enough and it needs to be seen by a veterinarian immediately.