Heat stroke is an acute condition of overheating that can lead to irreversible organ damage and even death.

Causes:

• - Staying in a closed car or in the sun
• - Intense physical activity at high temperatures
• - Lack of access to water or shade
• - Disturbances in thermoregulation (especially in flat-headed breeds, old or sick animals)

Signs:

• - Rapid shallow breathing (shortness of breath)
• - Bright red or cyanotic gums
• - Weakness, unsteady gait
• - Refusal to eat, vomiting, diarrhea
• - Fever (often > 40°C)
• - Seizures, loss of consciousness

Body temperature of 40-41°C indicates overheating, and over 42°C is a critical situation

First aid:

• - Move the animal to a cool, shaded place
• - Cover with damp towels (not ice)
• - Blow with a fan or provide gentle air movement
• - Give some cool water if the animal is conscious

Do not immerse in cold water completely - this can cause a vascular spasm and worsen the condition

Consult a veterinarian as soon as possible - lesions can progress even after cooling