All dogs are more susceptible to heat stroke than humans are but some are more at risk than others. It's 85 F out; have you checked your dog today?
Which dogs are at higher risk of heat stroke?
Brachycephalic breeds -Breeds with short faces, such as Pugs, Pekingese, Mastiffs, and Boxers, are at higher risk of overheating since their shorter airways do not cool as efficiently as with other breeds.Dogs with dark or thick coats -As we learned in elementary school, light colors reflect heat and dark colors absorb heat. Dark coated dogs such as black Labs, Dobermans, and Rottweilers will have a harder time dissipating heat than white coated dogs.
Dogs with respiratory diseases -Any dog that is coughing, sneezing, wheezing, experiencing nasal discharge, lung congestion, or any pulmonary disease will be at greater risk of heat stroke.Overexerted dogs -Dogs who are not accustomed to warm weather need time to adjust. Heat stroke doesn't always occur in extreme temperatures. Some dogs can have a heat stroke in an air conditioned room if they become overexcited and active. Do not work or exercise your dog on hot days or in the heat of the day. And don't rely on the dog to know when enough is enough.
Sick dogs, older dogs or puppies under 6 monthsDogs with fever -When temperatures reach 106 F and above, the dog is in danger of heat stroke.
Dogs on certain medications -Dogs taking certain medications such as diuretics are more susceptible to heat stroke.Dehydrated dogs -Dogs unable to reach water can become dehydrated quickly on hot days. Panting also hastens dehydration.
Dogs with heart disease or poor circulation -Dogs whose circulatory systems are not up to par cannot dissipate heat efficiently.Overweight dogs -Overweight dogs may have lessened breathing efficiency and tend to hold heat.
Muzzled dogs -Dogs wearing muzzles cannot breathe or pant efficiently on warm days. Heat strokes have been reported in dogs standing under a grooming parlor dryer while muzzled.Dogs who have had a previous heat stroke -If a dog has had a heat stroke before, he will always be more susceptible to another.If your dog falls into one or more of these groups, take precautions when the heat index rises above 75 F. Heat stroke is serious! Heat stroke is much easier to prevent than to treat!
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Joy Butler. Contact the author to obtain permission for republication.
Joy Butler
- Writer, retired lab tech, mom, and animal lover with over 20 years' experience rescuing, kenneling, training and showing dogs.
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