Heat Exhaustion vs. Heatstroke in Dogs: Understanding the Differences

When it comes to keeping our furry friends safe during hot weather, it's crucial to understand the differences between heat exhaustion and heatstroke in dogs. Both conditions can be dangerous, but they require different responses.

What is Heat Exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion occurs when your dog’s body temperature is elevated but remains below 104°F. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include excessive panting, drooling, and mild confusion. Recognizing these signs early can help prevent the condition from worsening.

What is Heatstroke?

Heatstroke is more severe and occurs when a dog's body temperature exceeds 104°F. The symptoms of heatstroke include:

• Excessive panting
• Drooling
• Confusion

If you notice these symptoms, it's crucial to act quickly. Heatstroke can be life-threatening and requires immediate attention.

Immediate Actions for Heatstroke

1. Cool Your Dog Down: Start by applying cool (not cold) water to your dog's body. This helps lower their temperature gradually.
2. Seek Veterinary Care: It is vital to take your dog to a veterinary hospital as soon as possible. Heatstroke cannot be effectively treated at home. Learn more about signs, symptoms, and actions to take during a heatstroke episode here.

Long-Term Effects of Heatstroke

Heatstroke can have serious long-term effects on your dog’s health. Here’s what you need to know:

Rhabdomyolysis

Rhabdomyolysis occurs when heatstroke causes muscle damage, leading to the release of dead muscle fibers into the bloodstream. This condition can result in severe complications, including:

• Renal Failure: When the kidneys cannot remove waste effectively.

Neurological Damage

Heatstroke can lead to neurological damage, with symptoms ranging from disorientation and confusion to severe cases like seizures or coma. The exact cause of brain damage is still under research.

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) can occur when the kidneys stop functioning properly. Symptoms include decreased urine output, swelling, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Severe cases may lead to acute renal failure (ARF).

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a severe condition where fluid accumulates in the lungs' air sacs, depriving organs of oxygen. ARDS can be fatal and requires immediate veterinary intervention.

Additional Conditions from Heatstroke

Other conditions that may arise from heatstroke include Hepato-biliary damage, sepsis, acute pancreatitis, and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Consult with your vet for more information and guidance on these conditions.

The Role of Camelina Oil

While studies have not yet established a direct preventative link between camelina oil and heatstroke, ExcelK9 can support your dog's overall well-being. Our formula includes polyphenols and omegas that contribute to:

• Central nervous system support
• Heart function
• Immune and inflammatory response systems

The antioxidants in camelina oil help neutralize oxidative stress damage, potentially benefiting your dog’s health.

Conclusion

Understanding heat exhaustion and heatstroke in dogs is crucial for their safety and well-being. Immediate veterinary care is essential for treating heatstroke, and long-term effects can be severe. ExcelK9 offers nutritional support to help maintain your dog’s health and resilience.

For more information, please consult the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health.