Hypothermia In Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, And Prevention
Posted on: 28 January 2016
Hypothermia is a serious medical condition that can be present in all mammals. To keep your dog healthy and safe, it's important to understand what causes it, what signs your dog will show if they're suffering from it, how it's treated, and how it can be prevented.
What Causes Hypothermia?
Hypothermia is a condition that is caused by a drastic drop in body temperature, usually from exposure to cold temperatures for extended periods of time.
Your pup's normal body temperature can range from 101 degrees to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, so technically, anything below 101 degrees may be considered hypothermia. If your dog is short-haired, small in build, young, elderly, or suffering from a metabolic condition, they're more susceptible to developing hypothermia and will likely experience more severe symptoms than dogs who are long-haired, large in build, and healthy.
What are the Symptoms of Hypothermia?
There are different levels of severity when it comes to hypothermia and each level has its own symptoms.
When hypothermia first sets in, your dog will show obvious signs of being cold, such as shivering and weakness. As your dog's body temperature begins to drop, they'll become stiffer and their mental awareness will lessen. Your dog may appear to be in a trance as the hypothermia worsens, and eventually, your dog's organs will begin to shut down. This will lead to a coma and eventually death.
How is Hypothermia Treated?
In the early stages, hypothermia can be easily treated at home, though it is recommended that your dog's vet be contacted for further instruction.
Your dog's veterinarian will ask you questions pertaining to your dog's symptoms, and this will help them to best advise you on treatment. If your dog was only exposed to the cold for a short period of time and is otherwise healthy, removal from the cold and the use of a blanket is likely enough to safely raise their body temperature. If your dog is showing signs of moderate or severe hypothermia, such as stiffness, lack of mental awareness, or frostbite, or if your dog is unable to regulate their body temperature (puppy, elderly, ill) they should be wrapped in blankets and brought to the emergency vet immediately. A temperature below 98 degrees Fahrenheit is considered an emergency and should be treated as such.
What Steps Can I Take to Prevent Hypothermia?
Hypothermia is a condition that can be easily prevented.
Cold temperatures can occur year round, so it's important to not assume that just because it isn't winter that your dog will be safe outside for extended periods of time. To prevent hypothermia, it's important that your dog isn't exposed to cold temperatures for a prolonged period of time. Your dog should be removed from a cold environment as soon as they begin shivering. If your dog is very young, old, or otherwise compromised, the use of sweaters and booties can help to trap their body heat and keep their temperature normal. If your dog must spend long periods of time outside, they must have a shelter that allows them to get out of the wind (a dog house) and there are even heated dog houses available to keep your dog extra cozy.
To learn more about hypothermia, consult with your pup's veterinarian, such as Animal House Veterinary Hospital.
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