Heatstroke is a condition where your dog’s temperature rises above normal. Dogs, unlike humans, do not sweat and they get rid of excess heat by panting but when the external temperature is beyond what panting can regulate, heatstroke ensues.
Dogs with short noses (brachycephalic), thick fur, or respiratory distress are susceptible to heatstroke more than others. Breeds that are easily prone to heatstroke are:
- Bullmastiff.
- Chow Chow
- Pug
- Caucasian.
- French bulldog.
- French mastiff.
- Golden Retriever.
Common causes of heat stroke include leaving your dog in a hot environment, leaving your dog in a car, and not providing water and shade for your pet. The signs to watch out for are excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, reddened gums, loss of consciousness and collapse. If you notice any of these signs, move your dog to a shaded or cool area, douse the body with cool water, give a small amount of cool water to drink (if conscious) and take the pet to the nearest vet immediately.
