Dealing with Heatstroke
Signs Of Heatstroke:
Any dog can fall victim to heatstroke, but Bulldogs are especially vulnerable.
Environmental conditions that can cause heatstroke include exercise, excessive heat—especially when coupled with high humidity—and confinement in a relatively small space such as a parked car or unventilated garage. NEVER leave your Bulldog in a car!
When a Bulldog has heatstroke, his life is in immediate jeopardy. Heatstroke impairs a dog’s heart and lung function and leads to shock, accelerating the rate at which the body systems stop functioning.
In addition to rapid heartbeat and breathing, quivering body, and collapse—other common signs of heatstroke include:
Rectal temperature greater than 105oF (normal is 100 – 102.5oF)
Heavy panting with dark red tongue and gums
Confusion
Lethargy
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Seizures
If your Bulldog exhibits the signs of heatstroke, emergency treatment is essential to save his life. You need to cool the Bulldog quickly to save his life. Some Options include applying water to the Bulldog from a garden hose, bucket or spray bottle and concentrating on the face, neck, footpads, groin, and armpits. Avoid using ice water; it may cause hypothermia. You can also use a fan to help keep air moving over the surface of the Bulldog’s body.
It’s also crucial to take your Bulldog to a veterinarian for further treatment. A veterinarian can treat the Bulldog for shock, respiratory distress or other problems induced by the heat. 