With the current heatwaves we are experiencing in Queensland, heatstroke can be a life threatening side effect. Heatstroke is an emergency, and in Dogs, it can lead to rapid multi-organ failure and has a high mortality rate.
Signs of heatstroke in dogs may include: constant panting, rapid breathing and heart rate, pale or red gums, drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, weakness, confusion, muscle tremors, seizures, little to no urination, and collapse.
Minimising the risk of heatstroke involves addressing the risk factors. You can help prevent heatstroke via weight management, avoiding high risk breeds with exaggerated features like flat faces, providing sufficient water, avoiding hot surfaces (e.g. sand, concrete), exercising with your dog at coolest times of day and avoiding the hottest times of the day, and giving access to a cool, shaded area with good ventilation at all times.
Never leave your dog in a vehicle. Even on an overcast day with the windows down, dogs can still overheat and die in a short time.
If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, start emergency first aid. Try to cool your dog down by applying room-temperature or cool water to their fur/skin. To maximise heat loss, keep the environment cool (e.g. fan, air-conditioning). Contact us at immediately on (07) 3103 8432 if you suspect heatstroke and need assistance.