|
Heat stroke is a condition arising from extremely high body
temperature (rectal temperature of 105 to 110 degrees F), which leads to
nervous system abnormalities such as lethargy, weakness, collapse or
coma. Abnormally high body temperature develops after increased muscular
activity with impaired ability to give off heat due to high heat and
humidity or respiratory obstruction. Allowing a dog to remain in a car
with closed windows on a hot summer day is probably the most common
cause of heat stroke.
Normal dogs dissipate heat from their skin. In addition, panting allows
evaporation of water from the respiratory tract and is an effective
method of heat dissipation. When these mechanisms are overwhelmed,
hyperthermia and heat stroke usually develop. At temperatures greater
than 109 F, failure of vital organs, and consequently death, can occur.
Heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke, heat exhaustion and heat
cramps can occur after exposure to extremely high environmental
temperatures. These illnesses occur in all mammals and can be prevented
by taking proper precautions.
Animals at greatest risk for heat-related illness include:
| * |
Puppies up to 6 months of age |
| * |
Overweight dogs |
| * |
Dogs that are overexerted during exercise |
| * |
Dogs that are ill or receiving certain medications |
| * |
Dogs with short, wide heads like pugs, English bulldogs and
Boston terriers |
| * |
Dogs with airway obstructive diseases |
| * |
Dogs with pre-existing fever |
| * |
Dogs that are dehydrated |
| * |
Dogs with heart disease |
| * |
Dogs with poor circulation due to cardiovascular or other
underlying disease |
| * |
Older pets |
What to watch for:
| * |
Noisy breathing that may indicate upper airway obstruction |
| * |
Excessive panting |
| * |
Bright red mucous membranes (gums, conjunctiva of the eyes) |
| * |
Weakness |
| * |
Collapse |
| * |
Coma |
Diagnostic tests are needed to diagnose heat stroke and assess the
extent of vital organ dysfunction, including:
| * |
A complete medical history and thorough physical
examination, including rectal temperature. |
| * |
A complete blood count (CBC) to assess the severity of
dehydration and cardiovascular stress. |
| * |
Coagulation tests to determine if there is a failure in
blood clotting that is often a complication of heat stroke |
| * |
Blood tests to check blood glucose concentration, assess the
extent of damage to vital organs, such as muscles, kidneys and
liver to evaluate the electrolyte and acid base status. |
The treatment of heat stroke depends upon the severity of the
illness. Animals with temperatures less than 105 F may only require
rest, fresh water and careful observation. Temperatures of 105 to 107
should be hospitalized on intravenous fluids. Temperatures over 107 must
be treated more aggressively and cooling can be promoted externally by
immersion in cool water or internally by administering a cool water
enema. Additional treatments may be needed if secondary complications
arise such as: liver failure, kidney failure, muscle breakdown, low
blood pressure, low blood sugar, convulsions and secondary infections.
Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency, but there are several
things you can do to prevent heat related problems for your dog. Monitor
outdoor temperatures and minimize your dog’s activity on hot, humid
days. NEVER leave your dog in a car, even with the windows partially
rolled down, for any reason at any time. Leaving dogs in a car during
warm weather is the most common cause of heat stroke. Provide your dog
with plenty of fresh water and plenty of shade.
|
