The Summer brings so many outdoor activities, places to travel to, and often – HOT temperatures! Lets take some time to go over some tips on heat exhaustion/Stroke and hot cars to help prevent our kritters from feeling crummy or dangerously ill.
Heat Exhaustion / Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is a term commonly used for hyperthermia or high body temperature. Generally speaking, if a pet’s body temperature exceeds 103°F (39.4°C), it is considered abnormal or hyperthermic. Body temperatures above 106°F (41°F) without previous signs of illness are most commonly associated with exposure to excessive external or environmental heat and are often referred to as heat stroke. The critical temperature where multiple organ failure and impending death occurs is around 107°F to 109°F (41.2°C to 42.7°C).
If you think your pet/animal is having a heat stroke, or the pet/animal is showing signs of a heat stroke – See Vet or Emergency Veterinary Care immediately! This is not something you should ever hesitate or wait on.
Hot Temps & Vehicles
Some Symptoms of Heat Stroke
- Excessive panting.
- Increased heart rate.
- Confusion or disorientation.
- Vomiting or diarrhea.
- Bright red gums.
- Body temperature higher than 104° F.
- Collapse, seizure, or coma.
If you see animals left outside in the extreme heat, or inside vehicles – NEVER hesitate to contact the local police as this is animal abuse!
References
- Related Blog Articles
- VCA Animal Hospital, “Heat Stroke in Dogs”
- vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/heat-stroke-in-dogs#:~:text=What%20is%20the%20treatment%20for,be%20applied%20to%20these%20areas.
- RSPCA, “Heat Stroke Guide in Cats & Dogs”
- www.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-care/health/heatstroke-hyperthermia
- Peconic Bay Animal Hospital, “Heatstroke in Dogs; Dead in Minutes”
- http://peconicvet.com/blog/2857-heatstroke-in-dogs-dead-in-minutes
