Shih Tzu Heat Stroke
Shih Tzu heat stroke is due to hot weather. Shih Tzu can’t stand the hot weather. Their short noses and squished-in faces make them less efficient at self-cooling. Dogs cool the air they breathe as it moves through their muzzles, but because the Shih Tzu’s muzzle is so short and not particularly efficient, the air doesn’t cool down very much before it enters the lungs. Their long coats act as insulation. A long coat can be great when Lola has to go outside in the winter, but this coat is entirely unsuited for hot humid weather. Puppies, overweight Shih Tzu, and dehydrated dogs are at even greater risk for heatstroke. (Many shih tzu owners shave their Shih Tzu’s body coat during the summer to keep them cooler — a comfortable and sensible option for pets.)
Shih Tzu Heat-stroke Symptoms
Shih Tzu Heatstroke symptoms include bright red gums, labored breathing and panting, weakness, no responsiveness, and collapse. You can take the following precautions to ensure that your Shih Tzu doesn’t suffer from heatstroke: Keep your Shih Tzu inside in a cool environment when the weather gets hot or humid. Taking your Shih Tzu out for short bathroom breaks and brief play sessions are okay. Just make sure that you supervise your
Shih Tzu at all times. Always be sure your Shih Tzu has plenty of fresh water. A dehydrated dog overheats much more quickly, and dogs get dehydrated more easily in the hot weather. Never leave a Shih Tzu in a parked car! Even if the temperature outside isn’t all that hot, the car acts like a greenhouse when the sun shines on it, and the temperature inside the car can quickly skyrocket far above the temperature outside. When the day is warm and sunny, take your Shih Tzu with you in a carrier when you leave the car or leave her home.
What to do if your Shih Tzu suffering from heat-stroke?
If you suspect your Shih Tzu has heat stroke, take steps to cool your dog immediately — put him in front of a fan or in cool water. And then call the vet or emergency vet clinic. Take your pup’s temperature rectally, and if it is more than 105 degrees, call the vet. (Check “How to take Shih Tzu’s temperature”) If your shih tzu has collapsed, go to the vet immediately. If your dog’s temperature is above 105 degrees, your vet will probably give intravenous fluids to hydrate your dog and may give other medication appropriate to any symptoms. The vet may also immerse your dog in cool water or even give oxygen therapy.
More See: Shih Tzu Health Guides
