Let's Go For a Walk...Or Maybe a Run? Part Two: Heat Stroke/Heat Exhaustion
By Rita Hookstead

In connection with our article written on exercise and your dogs from our last newsletter, we wanted to talk about a very important topic: heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Heat stroke is an excessive elevation of the body temperature from prolonged exposure to high temperatures, high humidity, and/or inadequate ventilation. Heat stroke can easily occur from vigorous exercising on a hot day. Dogs cannot regulate their body temperature, so it is vitally important to moderate their exercise when temperatures and humidity levels are high.

Other ways dogs can suffer from heat stroke are leaving them in an automobile with the windows rolled up on a hot day, or leaving them confined outdoors on a hot day with no access to shade and/or water.

Clinical signs include elevated temperature, weakness, panting heavily, and disorientation. If you see any of these signs in your dog, seek veterinary assistance promptly, as heat stroke requires immediate therapy. First aid for these pets includes reducing the animal's core temperature. Bring the animal into a cool environment and wrap them in a cool, wet towel. Call us as soon as possible, so we can treat and monitor your pet as necessary.

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These articles are for your educational enjoyment. They may not be republished without the permission of Marsh View Veterinary Clinic. Please contact us at 920-326-3020 or 920-326-5738 if you have any questions.