Heat Stroke (Hyperthermia)
- urgentpawsvetclini
- Jul 7
- 2 min read
Body temperature may be elevated because of an infection (fever), but it may also increase because of hot and/or humid conditions outside. An increased body temperature caused by environmental conditions is commonly referred to as hyperthermia, heat stroke, or heat prostration.
A dog’s normal body temperature is 39.4°C, and any time the body temperature is higher than 40.5°C, a true emergency exists. Heat stroke generally occurs in hot summer weather when dogs are left with inadequate ventilation in hot vehicles. However, heat stroke may also occur in other conditions, including:
When an animal is left outdoors in hot/humid conditions without adequate shade.
When exercised in hot/humid weather.
When left in a car, even with the windows open
Other predisposing factors may be obesity and/or diseases affecting a pet’s airway. Keep in mind that prolonged seizures, eclampsia (milk fever), poisonings, and many other conditions may cause hyperthermia. Also, brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds (Bulldogs, Persians, Pekingese, Pug, Lhasa Apso, Boston terrier, etc.) may suffer from “ineffectual panter syndrome” which results in an increased body temperature that may be fatal.
Initially, the pet appears distressed and will pant excessively and become restless. As the hyperthermia progresses, the pet may drool large amounts of saliva from the nose and/or mouth. The pet may become unsteady on his feet. You may notice the gums turning blue/purple or bright red, which is due to inadequate oxygen.
What to do is you suspect heat stroke in your pet
Beginning the process of cooling the pet immediately is extremely important.
Remove your pet from the environment where the hyperthermia occurred.
Move your pet to a shaded and cool environment, and direct a fan at them.
If possible, determine rectal temperature and record it.
Place your pet in a cool or tepid water bath (or in the shower) without submerging their heads.
You may also wet the ear flaps and paws with cool water. Directing a fan on these wetted areas will help to speed up evaporative cooling. Transport to the closest veterinary facility immediately.
If it can be done safely, immersion in an ice-water bath can help quickly cool an overheated pet. (Do not submerge the head or face.) This may counter what you have heard in the past, but this is the latest information on cooling humans with heat exhaustion and applies to pets.
What NOT to do
Do not over-cool the pet. Do not cover your pet with wet towels.
Most pets with hyperthermia have body temperatures greater than 40.5°C, and a reasonable goal of cooling is to reduce your pet’s body temperature to 39.1-39.4°C while transporting them to the closest veterinary facility.
Do not attempt to force water into your pet’s mouth, but you may have fresh, cool water ready to offer should your pet be alert and show an interest in drinking.
Do not leave your pet unattended for any length of time.
Severe hyperthermia is a condition that affects nearly every system in the body. Simply lowering the body temperature fails to address the potentially catastrophic events often accompanying this disorder. A pet suffering from hyperthermia should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
For more information please visit, Hyperthermia (Heat Stroke): First Aid - Veterinary Partner - VIN
