Heat stroke in a dog is an emergency situation that requires immediate treatment. Remember that dogs do not sweat so they cannot tolerate very high temperatures like humans can.
Dogs primarily keep their cool by panting which is not the most efficient process of cooling for the body.
Some common reasons why a dog might experience this condition is being left in the car, exercising in hot weather, being a brachycephalic breed like a bulldog, suffering from heart or lung disease, being muzzled while being put under a hairdryer, or put in a drying cage at a groomer's office.
Heat stroke usually begins when the dog is having trouble breathing or is heavily panting. The tongue and the mucous membranes usually will appear brick red and the dog will often vomit.
Body temperatures for the dog can reach anywhere from 104° to 110°F. Once the dog actually gets into the state of shock the mucous membranes will turn gray due to a lack of proper circulation.
Other signs can be collapse, seizures, coma, and bloody diarrhea.
If you believe your dog is experiencing any of these conditions the most important thing is to cool your dog off right away. Remove them from the source of heat and get them into a cool environment right away.
You can cool your dog down quickly using a water hose or even using some ice and fans. You should also contact your veterinarian right away so that you can receive further instructions on how to proceed.
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