Hypothermia in dogs

Hypothermia in dogs is an extreme lowering of the body temperature. It happens when pets suffer exposure to frigid temperatures for too long, or if they have wet fur in cold, windy environments.

When the body temperature drops, heart rate and breathing slow down, which can lead to several problems. The consequences of sustained, severe hypothermia may include neurological problems (including coma), heart problems,kidney failure, slow or no breathing, frostbite, and eventually death.

Cause of hypothermia in dogs –

Hypothermia in dogs is often caused by overexposure to frigid temperatures without a way to stay warm. However, it can happen to dogs at normal temperatures, especially if they are very old or young or under anesthesia.

Dogs who suffer from diseases of the hypothalamus, including hypothyroidism, are also at risk.

Here are some other potential causes of hypothermia in dogs:

• Wet fur or skin
• Being in cold water for a long period of time
• Shock

If you see the signs of hypothermia in your dog, take steps to keep them warm. Call your veterinarian immediately for treatment. Call for consultation doctor Dr. R. K. Mawai veterinary physician & surgeon contact 📞08319280662

Symptoms of hypothermia in dogs-

If you notice the following signs in your dog, keep them warm and get to an emergency vet for treatment:

• Strong shivering and trembling followed by no shivering
• Acting sleepy or lethargic and weak
• Fur and skin are cold to the touch
• Body temperature is below 95 degrees (Fahrenheit)
• Decreased heart rate
• Dilated pupils (the black inner circle of the eye appears larger)
• Gums and inner eyelids are pale or blue
• Trouble walking
• Trouble breathing
• Stupor, unconsciousness, or coma

Treatment of hypothermia in dogs-

If you suspect your pet has hypothermia, take the following steps:

• Remove your pet from the cold and put them in a warm room.
• Dry off your pet thoroughly either with towels or a hair dryer set on low and held about twelve inches away.
• Wrap your pet in a blanket. Warm it in the clothes dryer first.
• Wrap warm hot-water bottles in towels (to prevent burning your pet) and place on pet’s abdomen.
• Heating pads can be used if your dog is dry, but supervise them so they don’t chew at the cords.
• Allow your dog to drink warm fluids.
• Check the pet’s temperature with a thermometer. If it’s below 95 degrees, the pet could be at risk for hypothermia. Take them to a vet immediately.

If their temperature is above 95 degrees Fahrenheit, retake their temperature every ten to 15 minutes to see how severe the hypothermia is while doing the warming techniques. Once their temperature is 100 degrees or higher, you can remove the hot-water bottle, but be sure to keep them warm.

Get your dog checked by a veterinarian the same day, even when their temperature reaches 99 degrees or higher because one incidence of hypothermia can be harmful and make them prone to it again.

If your pet doesn’t respond to warming up their body within 30 to 45 minutes, go to straight to emergency vet clinic.

Prevention of hypothermia in dogs-

Hypothermia can be prevented by not allowing your dog outside for too long in very cold weather or near frigid water.