Even when it’s only moderately warm outdoors, the interior of a home or car can quickly become an oven.
Heatstroke, an excessively high body temperature, can cause brain damage, kidney failure and, in half its canine victims, death.
We dogs are particularly susceptible because we can’t regulate our body temperatures very well, especially if we’re young, old, overweight, have breathing difficulties or have heart disease or other medical problems.
Signs of heatstroke include rapid breathing and heart rate, vomiting, diarrhea and then collapse.
Treatment is aimed at lowering body temperature and preventing damage to the brain and other organs through intravenous fluids and medications.
If Eddie ever has a repeat episode, spray him with a garden hose or immerse him in cool water, but not ice water, before you transport him to the animal hospital. Once he’s in the car, position him by the air conditioner vents.

One response to “As summer begins learn about heatstroke in dogs”

  1. hypertension says:

    my daughter was diagnosed with pulmanary hypertension aug 6 2009 and is 17 years old. it is alot of sleepless nights for a parent, for she feels and looks good on the outside but is damaged in the inside. with the proper medicine and hope, i put my prayers in god. best of luck to all that is going through this same ordeal.

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