ASK THE VET | Heat Stroke in Macau

In the last few weeks I have seen several cases of heat stroke. It is imperative that dog owners know what to look
out for and how to prevent and treat it. Heatstroke occurs when normal body mechanisms cannot keep the body’s temperature in a safe range. Animals do not have efficient cooling systems (like humans who sweat) and get overheated very easily, especially here in Macau. A dog with moderate heatstroke (body temperature from 40oC to 41oC) can recover within an hour if given prompt first aid and veterinary care (normal body temperature is 37.7-39.1°C). Severe heatstroke (body temperature over 41oC) can be deadly and immediate veterinary assistance is needed.
SIGNS
A dog suffering from heatstroke will dis- play several signs:
Rapid panting
Bright red tongue
Red or pale gums
Thick, sticky saliva
Depression
Weakness
Dizziness
Vomiting – sometimes with blood Diarrhea
Shock Coma

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
Remove the dog from the hot area immediately. Prior to taking him to your veterinarian, lower his temperature by wetting him thoroughly with cool water (for very small dogs, use lukewarm water), then increase air movement around him with a fan. CAUTION: Using very cold water can actually be counterproductive. Coo- ling too quickly and especially allowing his body temperature to become too low can cause other life-threatening medical conditions. The rectal temperature should be checked every 5 minutes. Once the body temperature is 39oC, the cooling measures should be stopped and the dog should be dried thoroughly and covered so he does not continue to lose heat. Even if the dog appears to be recovering, take him to your veterinarian as soon as possible. He should still be examined since he may be dehydrated or have other complications.
Allow free access to water or a children’s rehydrating solution if the dog can drink on his own. Do not try to force-feed cold water; the dog may inhale it or choke.

AFTERCARE
Dogs with moderate heatstroke often recover without complicating health problems. Severe heatstroke can cause organ damage that might need ongoing care such as a special diet prescribed by your veterinarian. Dogs who suffer from heats-troke once increase their risk for getting it again and steps must be taken to prevent it on hot, humid days.

PREVENTION
Any pet that cannot cool himself off is at risk for heatstroke. Following these guidelines can help prevent serious problems.
Keep pets with predisposing conditions like heart disease, obesity, older age, or breathing problems cool and in the shade. Even normal activity for these pets can be harmful.
Provide access to water at all times.
Do not leave your pet in a hot parked car even if you’re in the shade or will only be gone a short time. The temperature inside a parked car can quickly reach up to 60 degrees Celsius.
Make sure outside dogs have access to shade.
On a hot day, restrict exercise and don’t take your dog jogging with you. Too much exercise when the weather is very hot can be dangerous.
Do not muzzle your dog.
Avoid places like the beach and especially concrete or asphalt areas where heat is reflected and there is no access to shade.
Wetting down your dog with cool water or allowing him to swim can help maintain a normal body temperature.
Move your dog to a cool area of the house. Air conditioning is one of the best ways to keep a dog cool, but is not always dependable. To provide a cooler environment, freeze water in soda bottles, or place ice and a small amount of water in several resealable food storage bags, then wrap them in a towel or tube sock. Place them on the floor for the dog to lay on.

Hope this helps Till next week
Dr Ruan

Ask the Vet:
Royal Veterinary Centre
Tel: +853 28501099,
+853 28523678
Emergency: +853 62662268
Email: royalveterinary@gmail.com