Heat stroke is a severe increase in body temperature above the average range that the body is unable to handle. Heatstroke can result in multiple-organ failure and possible death within 15 minutes.
FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO HEAT STROKE
- Excessive heat and humidity
- Overexertion / excessive exercise, especially in hot conditions
- Being left in a hot car or confined to areas of concrete/asphalt
- Heart or lung disease / breed-specific complications
- Lack of shade and fresh drinking water
- History of heat stroke
SYMPTOMS OF HEAT STROKE
- Heavy panting
- Lack of coordination / muscle tremors
- Excessive thirst, thick saliva
- Dark tongue and lips
- Restlessness or lethargy
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Seizures
- Coma
TREATMENT
- Move pet to cool environment immediately
- Pour water (not ice water) over body and paws or immerse if possible
- Apply cool packs to groin area
- Call your veterinarian or emergency hospital immediately; breathing problems can occur; kidney failure, irregular heartbeat and seizures can occur hours or days later
