Pets are an integral part of the lives of those who have them. At any situation a pet parent always worries about their paw kids. Dog parents deserve a special mention in this case.Considering the situation of UK, the extreme heat conditions has made the dog lovers and vets immensely worried. Like humans they can fall severely ill in this rising temperature, so it’s important to monitor their health and ensure they are not left stranded outdoors in extreme heat. Amidst this condition, there is another pressing concern for dogs: heatstroke. According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), if a dog fails to lower its temperature by panting, it can develop a heatstroke. For example, puppies and senior dogs don’t hold enough capability to regulate their temperature.
What is heatstroke in a dog?
According to the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), Heatstroke is an extremely dangerous condition that can develop if a dog gets too hot. Normal body temperature for a dog tends to sit between 38-39°C (100.4-102.2°F), this can rise a bit if they are unwell with a fever.If your dog’s body temperature goes above 40°C (104°F) they are at risk of heatstroke, which can cause seizures, organ damage, internal bleeding, coma and even death. Heatstroke is more dangerous the longer it lasts, so the quicker your dog is cooled down and treated by a vet, the better their chance of a full recovery.Here are some dog breeds that are extremely vulnerable to heat strokes and about them, everyone should be more careful.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are among those dog breeds extremely susceptible to heat-related illnesses. In this soaring temperature, the adorable flat-faced popular dog face issues in regulating their body temperature making their owners highly concerned for them. They are brachycephalic breed with narrowed airways, making it difficult for them to cool down.The primary way through which dogs cool them down is panting. But here is the twist, French bulldogs often struggle to release their excess heat through panting as they are they are brachycephalic breed with narrowed airways. This places them at a higher risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
English Bulldog
Shaun Opperman, Veterinary Director at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, told The Sun: “Flat-faced breeds, such as bulldogs or pugs, can even struggle with their breathing at temperatures as low as 20C, making them far more susceptible to heat-related illness and heatstroke”.English Bulldogs with their short muzzle and compromised respiratory system, find it difficult to cool their body. They need special care, as heavy build dogs like them face overheating in their bodies. Owners who have English bulldogs, should be limiting their outdoor times and monitor any unnatural symptoms within them.
Pugs
Pugs are smaller in size. But they have the same issue, flat-face which restricts airflow, reducing the effectiveness of panting, which is a dog’s primary cooling mechanism.Pugs are frequently highlighted by welfare groups as one of the breeds most susceptible to heatstroke. Warm indoor conditions, direct sunlight and physical exertion can quickly elevate their body temperature to dangerous levels.
Chow Chow
Chow Chow is a breed originally bred for colder weathers. Their luxurious fur may contribute to their distinctive appearance, but it can also trap heat and make temperature regulation more difficult.During heatwaves, Chow Chows may become uncomfortable much faster than many other breeds, particularly if exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernard known as mountain rescue dogs, their size and density that stand as the biggest setback during prolonged high temperatures.Weighing up to 80 kilograms or more, these gentle giants generate and retain substantial body heat.Developed for the cold Alpine environment, Saint Bernard may struggle to stay comfortable and can become overheated relatively quickly.
What should owners do?
Owners are encouraged to provide cool indoor spaces, fresh drinking water and opportunities for rest. Cutting down on physical activity during the hottest part of the day can greatly decrease the chances of getting sick from the heat.