Dogs are even more susceptible to heatstroke so never leave your dog in a vehicle no matter what!
Dogs rely on three ways to keep cool. Panting through the mouth is the most effective way dogs try to keep cool during the summer months, like humans do when we have just completed a rigorous workout. Unlike humans, dogs do not sweat, therefore, they also rely on their paws and stomach area to release heat. So, if your pet loves to lay on their stomachs flat on a marble floor, you will know why.
However, dogs do have a lower heat index threshold when it comes to heatstroke. As explained earlier above, dogs will suffer from heatstroke faster than humans. According to research, most dogs’ body temperature is between 100 ̊ F – 102 ̊ F (38 ̊ C – 39 ̊ C) compared to 98.6 ̊ F (37 ̊ C). Dogs also succumb to heatstroke at around 104 ̊ F (40 ̊ C), but since they do not have sweat glands as pointed out earlier, the fatality rate will be faster and higher than humans.
Similar to humans, dogs will have very distinct signs when they suffer from heatstroke. The following breakdown will show different stages of heatstroke for dogs:
- Mild heatstroke: panting, fast/difficulty breathing, lethargy (low energy).
- Moderate heatstroke: drooling, foaming at the mouth, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness and collapse.
- Severe heatstroke: Confusion, seizures, unconsciousness, vomiting with blood, diarrhea with blood.
But what really happens to dogs when heatstroke occurs? Besides the aforementioned symptoms, the following will also take place if the dog is left to suffer in a hot vehicle:
- Encephalopathies: damage to the brain, may lead to confusion, permanent brain damage.
- Gastrointestinal failure: the inability of the gut to absorb necessary water, nutrients, and electrolytes to sustain life.
- Acute kidney injury: inability to remove waste and extra fluid.
- Coagulopathies: Inability for blood to coagulate, which may lead to excessive bleeding.
From editor’s point of view, every life is precious! Life comes in many different forms, shapes, and sizes. I personally have two chow chows and from the day that we commit to raise a pet, we have the responsibility to love, cherish, and guard them. No matter what goes on with your everyday life, coming home to furious tail wagging sessions is a moment to remember!
In our everyday life filled with work, family members, routines hectic schedules, our pet is just one small part of it. Bur from their point of view, we are their whole world.
Article references:
globalnews.ca/news/2807578/this-is-what-happens-to-your-dog-when-you-leave-it-in-a-hot-car/
www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/conditions/heatstroke-in-dogs
Picture shown are editor’s chowchows. Left: Mochi (3 years old) ; right: Lionhead (8 years old).
