Hypothermia can affect dogs just as it can humans. The term "hypothermia" refers to the situation that occurs when the body's temperature falls below a certain point making it impossible for the body to function. If not treated, it can be fatal. Smaller dogs and dogs with short hair are at high risk for suffering from hypothermia when they are in cold temperatures for long periods. Learning to recognize the symptoms and treatment options is important to keep your dog safe during cold conditions.
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Symptoms and Signs
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The main sign of mild hypothermia in dogs in excessive shivering. Dogs shiver in order to produce body heat, thus, continuous shivering may mean the dog's body temperature is too cold. A dog with hypothermia will also breath abnormally slow and breathing patterns will become very shallow. The dog's heart rate will slow considerably and because of muscle stiffness, the dog may become clumsy, losing all coordination. Dogs may also appear lethargic.
Moderate to severe hypothermia occurs when the dog's temperature falls below 95 degrees. In some cases, the dog's eyes may become very dilated and fixed, and their gums may turn very pale or blueish in color. In extreme cases, the dog may collapse and/or enter into a coma.
Treatment
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Immediate treatment of hypothermia is crucial. If a dog is not treated in the appropriate time period, its temperature may become so low that it cannot be restored to normal levels, making it fatal.
If mild symptoms such as lethargy and shivering continue to occur after the dog has been in cold temperatures, immediately move the dog to a warm area in the house such as in front of a heater vent or fireplace. Keep the dog wrapped in a blanket or anything warm until the dog's body temperature rises to normal levels. Taking the dog's temperature is the only way to tell if its temperature has reached normal levels. After awhile, the dog should return to normal movement, indicating his temperature has risen. Ideally a dog's temperature should be between 103-105 degrees Fahrenheit.
Take the dog immediately to a veterinarian if you suspect he has severe hypothermia or warming methods do not seem to be helping the dog. Vets can perform warm water enemas and other methods to treat hypothermia.
Prevention Methods
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During colder weather, you should regulate how much time your dog spends outside. If the dog is going to be outside for prolonged periods of time, it may be a good idea to use protective clothing on it or provide warmer shelter.
If your dog is smaller and more sensitive to colder temperatures, take it outside only when necessary. Limit outside playtime and make sure the dog avoids any body of water while outdoors. Getting a dog wet in cold temperatures can quickly drop the dog's temperature to unsafe levels.
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