Summer Heat is Dangerous!

Summer is such an awesome time of year. The kids are out of school, vacation reservations are booked, and grilling season is upon us. Summer also brings hot temps and humid weather for us in the south, which can be dangerous. Every year we treat several cases of heatstroke that are truly heart breaking because we know it could have been prevented.

So what is heatstroke?
Most people are aware that this happens in humans but that pets are fairly resistant to the effects of heat. THIS IS FALSE. Pets are just as susceptible to outside conditions as humans are especially when talking about hot temperatures. Days in the 90 degree temps especially when mixed with humidity are dangerous conditions for pets. Their internal temperature will rise past the ability of the pet's body to control. Dogs pant to help control the heat. They inhale cooler air and expel the hot air through their mouth. Although this is a great and efficient way for them to regulate temperature it is severely limited. Also dogs that are brachiocephalic ("smushed nose") like pugs and bulldogs are at greater risk for heatstroke. Their nasal passages are smaller which makes it more difficult to circulate air. Overweight and Older pets also have a greater risk of heatstroke. 

A dog and cats normal temp is around 101-102 F. Moderate heatstroke is when their internal temps reach 104-106F. Severe is classified as over 106F. Heatstroke (hyperthermia) will cause damage to internal organs and is fatal if left untreated.


We often see heatstroke after a patient has been left in a car. Cars are extremely dangerous. Even cars with cracked windows are NOT ok! Cars are ovens and if your pet cannot go with you when you get out then leave them at home!! The link below is an awesome video a veterinarian did to show how hot your pets get in the car!!!

Dr Ernie Ward shows how hot it gets for pets in a hot car

What are the signs of heat stroke?
Signs for heat stroke include:rapid panting, vomiting, diarrhea, shock, sticky excessive saliva, brick red or pale gums, high temperature, weakness, and death if left untreated.

If you think your pet is experiencing heatstroke, remove them from the heat and call a veterinarian immediately for further instructions.

The main treatment is found in prevention. 
1) Keep outdoor pets in the shade and provide plenty of water. A second water bowl is a good idea in case one is overturned! Make sure the area is well-ventilated.
2) Keep a closer watch on brachiocephalic, old, overweight, or sick pets - they may need to stay inside
3) NEVER LEAVE YOUR PET IN THE CAR - even for short periods of time
4) Restrict outdoor activities such as long hikes, running, or chasing a ball.
5)Avoid places with sand, concrete or hot asphalt where the heat is reflected and shade is limited
6) Air conditioning is the best way to prevent high temps and reduce humidity levels.
8) Talk to your groomer - long haired dogs may need a summer hair cut.