Summer Season – related stress in Dog’s and it’s alleviating opportunities
During summer different parts of Odisha including state capital Bhubaneswar records high environmental temperature, medically considered uncomfortable for normal health. Dogs, unlike humans, have Eccrine sweat glands found only in the paw pads and nose that helps minimally to heat dissipation. Heat accumulation is further triggered by the presence of long and thick coat. An ideal indoor temperature between 24 to 300 C helps dogs to maintain body temperature around 37-39⁰ C and stay comfortable with all physiological activities at optimum level. However, there are little variations with respect to breed, age, activity level and health conditions. Here's a breakdown for pet parents, animal lovers and animal handlersto understand different aspects of risks associated with heat stress in dogs and management tips for better living.
Dog breeds vis-à-vis heat stress: Flat-faced / brachycephalic breeds such as Pug, Boxer and Bulldog are in high-risk category because of narrow airways with poor heat dissipation via panting. Other breeds in decreasing order of susceptibility are long-haired thick coat (Golden retriever, German Shepherd), long-haired toy breeds (Shih Tzu / Lhasa Apso) and short-haired active breeds (Beagle, Chihuahua). Siberian Huskies are more adapted to cooler temperatures, hence may prefer a slightly cooler environment. Puppies, pregnant bitch, older dogs and more active individuals are more sensitive to temperature changes.
Warning signs of heat stress: Dogs under heat stress may exhibit one or more signs that include cool-seeking behaviour, Increased thirst, loss of appetite, reluctance to move, unsteadiness, restlessness, unwillingness to walk, increased body temperature, excessive panting, drooling, labored breathing, dry nose, red ears, heat rashes, bluish tongue, seizures, muscle tremors, epistaxis, coughing, vomiting and diarrhea.
Summer special walking practices: It's best to head out early in the morning or later in the evening when outer temperatures are cooler. Avoid walk during peak hours ie., between 9 am and 5 pm when the risk of paw burns and heatstroke is more. The duration of the walk is another important factor. Puppies and senior dogs typically need 15–30 minutes of walking, while healthy adult dogs may require 30–60 minutes. High-energy breeds like Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds or Indie dogs need more exercise than low-energy breeds. Walks should be kept short, slow-paced, and strictly during the cooler hours especially for brachycephalic breeds.
Management practices with Power-failure tips:
- Encourage more water intake: Water requirement for dog is about 20 - 80 ml/ kg body weight. Place water bowl in designated place(s) and ensure availability of adequate drinking water. Prefer wet food to increase overall water intake. Reward or praise following water intake to create a positive association. Avoid feeding during high temperature zone. Food items usually avoided or minimized include chicken, fish, root vegetables, wheat, oats and ragi.
- Carry drinking water during walk: After the walk, help your dog cool down in a shed and offer water.
- Power supply failure tips: Relocate the pet to pre-identified cooler area/shade, use battery operated/ handheld portable cooler or fan, provide cold water by adding ice cubes to water bowl, close blinds or curtains to block direct sunlight and hot wind and use of pet cooling pads, wet towels and adopt cooling practice.
Cooling mat: It helps in regulating the dog’s body temperature. They are of 3 types: gel-based, water-based and phase change material. Gel-based cooling mats contain a non-toxic gel that activates when dog lies on it. These mats are popular. Water-based mats need refrigeration before use to enhance the cooling effect. They are heavier and require careful handling to avoid leaks. Phase change material mats offer consistent cooling for extended periods and are highly effective. Irrespective of the types, mats should be placed in a shaded and well-ventilated area for optimal performance.
Active cooling: Cold-water immersion is recommended for young and healthy dogs.
Evaporative cooling: Spraying the skin and coat is done with water followed by fanning. Damp towels can be used focusing on areas with less hair such as the groin, underarms and paw pads. Towels should be periodically replaced with fresh, cold ones.
Precautions: Care must be taken to avoid prolonged dampening of the hair coat especially in long-haired breeds as that may lead to development of dermatitis due to bacterial growth caused by moisture and humidity. Towels and cooling pads must be cleaned regularly to prevent irritation, inflammation and subsequently pyoderma or folliculitis.
With prolonged sign (s) of heat stress and / or assistance, contact vet at the earliest so as to avoid fatal situation.
With expert advice and inputs from Dr. Varun Kumar Sarkar and Dr. Trupti Priya Lenka, Assistant Professors: Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Siksha 'O' Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar.
