According to a 2023 report by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the frequency, duration and intensity of heat waves have increased dramatically in recent decades, and 2023 was globally the warmest year on record. As temperatures rise, so have cases of heat-related veterinary visits, and it’s growing more vital to know the warning signs of heat stroke in your pets and take educated preventative measures.
Heat-related veterinary visits include heat exhaustion and heat stroke, when an animal’s temperature rises so high that they are no longer able to regulate their own temperature and require medical treatment.
Cases of heat-related emergency visits to Cheat Lake Animal Hospital have increased in recent years and begun presenting themselves earlier in the season, said owner Dr. Jesse Fallon, a trend he attributes to rising temperatures, higher rates of outdoor activities like hiking and growing popularity of at-risk dog breeds.
Although all pet owners should understand the early signs of heat exhaustion, it’s especially pertinent for owners of specific types of pets. Elderly or very young animals, those with heart or respiratory conditions, overweight animals and those with thick coats are all at a greater risk of heat stroke. Making up a majority of Cheat Lake Animal Hospital’s heat-related visits, however, are brachycephalic dog breeds, also referred to as “flat-faced,” including popular breeds such as the English bulldog, French bulldog, pug, Boston terrier, boxer and more.
“They have a harder time moving air, and because of that, they have a harder time maintaining their body temperature,” said Fallon. “Owners that have those types of pets need to be aware that they’re at a higher risk.”
Although pets left in hot vehicles make up a sizable portion of cases, causes of heat stroke are varied. Triggers of heat stroke include entrapment in any confined space with excessive heat or lack of air circulation, time spent outside in extreme temperatures or humidity without rest, shade and access to cool, clean water, exercise in high temperatures and exposure to the radiant heat of urban areas like sidewalks or pavement.
Many pet owners were left in a difficult situation last month when areas of north-central West Virginia were left without power due to storms, some home temperatures creeping upwards of 90 degrees. Like all emergency situations, have a plan in place for yourself and your pets ahead of time.
Learning the early signs of heat exhaustion can ensure a quick response time if the situation ever arises. Excessive panting, lethargy and incoordination, restlessness, a disinterest in play or commands, increased heart rate, drooling and abnormal gum color are just a few early signs of heat exhaustion, before progressing to more severe collapse, seizures, diarrhea and, if left untreated, death.
With prompt veterinary treatment, most heat stroke cases will recover, but early recognition and treatment is key.
“At the first sign that you’re worried your dog may be overheated, get them in the shade, get them in air conditioning, get them some fresh water, keep them as cool as possible,” said Fallon. “If you see severe signs, get them to the vet — you’re not going to be able to handle that at home just with cooling techniques.”
In the event that your pet is overheating, avoid offering them ice or ice-cold water, spraying alcohol on their paw pads, draping a wet towel over the pet or other methods that might affect the pet’s temperature too rapidly or restrict their self-cooling methods.
The easiest step to prevention, however, is avoidance, explained Fallon. Keep your pets out of situations that can lead to overheating. Reserve exercise and outdoor time for cooler mornings and evenings, ensure your pets have continuous access to clean water, shade and air circulation, maintain a healthy weight for your pet year-round and, at the heart of Fallon’s advice, remember that your pet’s safety is in your hands.
“Keep in mind that the pet is not going to be able to tell you if it’s getting too hot, they’re not the same as people so you’ve got to look out for them,” said Fallon. “It’s our job as pet owners to be the caretakers of our pets and to make sure they’re not getting too hot.”
Cheat Lake Animal Hospital intakes multiple heat-related emergency visits every week on average during summer months. Education, preparation and prevention can help keep your pet off the treatment table — but if the situation arises, don’t hesitate to visit the hospital during its 24/7 operations.
For more information, visit www.CheatLakeVets.com.
