On a hot summer day the inside of your car heats up very quickly. On an 85 degree day, for example, the temperature inside your car--with the windows slightly opened--will reach 102 degrees in 10 minutes! In 30 minutes, it will go to up to 120 degrees. On warmer days, it will go even higher.
A dog's normal body temperature is 101.5 to 102.2 degrees. A dog can withstand a body temperature of 107-108 degrees for only a very short time before suffering irreparable brain damage--or even death. The closed confines of a car interferes with a dog's normal cooling process, that is, evaporation through panting.
Canine Heat Stress Treatment
In heatstroke cases, high fever must be reduced rapidly to save the dog's life and
prevent brain damage. If heatstroke occurs, you should do the following:
Gradually immerse the dog in cool water if possible, or spray the dog with cool water from a garden hose.
Apply ice packs to the dog's head and neck.
Take the dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Heat exhaustion or heat cramps must also be treated by a veterinarian.
Canine Heat Stress Preventative Measures:
1. Never leave a dog in a closed car or unventilated enclosure for any length of time.
2. Kennels should have adequate ventilation to provide good air circulation in the summer.
3. When dogs are outside, some type of shade should be available at all times.
4. Always keep fresh water available.
5. Avoid excessive exercise of dogs during hot weather.
6. Hot sidewalks and pavement can burn your dog's paws.
Other helpful Tips For Dog Owners: